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diff --git a/1837-h/1837-h.htm b/1837-h/1837-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ef1f5a2 --- /dev/null +++ b/1837-h/1837-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,12210 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> + <head> + <title> + THE PRINCE AND THE PAUPER, COMPLETE, By Mark Twain + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + .indent5 { margin-left: 5%;} + .indent10 { margin-left: 10%;} + .indent15 { margin-left: 15%;} + .indent20 { margin-left: 20%;} + .indent30 { margin-left: 30%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 100%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + .side { float: left; font-size: 75%; width: 25%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; text-align: left; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + p.pfirst, p.noindent {text-indent: 0} + span.dropcap { float: left; margin: 0 0.1em 0 0; line-height: 1 } + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> + <h1> + THE PRINCE AND THE PAUPER + </h1> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Prince and The Pauper, Complete +by Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens) + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Prince and The Pauper, Complete + +Author: Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens) + +Release Date: August 20, 2006 [EBook #1837] +Last Updated: May 25, 2018 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK PRINCE AND THE PAUPER *** + + + + +Produced by David Widger. The earliest PG edition was prepared by +Les Bowler + + + + + + +</pre> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + THE PRINCE AND THE PAUPER + </h1> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h2> + by Mark Twain + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="bookcover.jpg (148K)" src="images/cover.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="frontispiece1.jpg (135K)" src="images/frontispiece1.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="frontispiece2.jpg (123K)" src="images/frontispiece2.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="titlepage.jpg (62K)" src="images/titlepage.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="greatseal" id="greatseal"></a><br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="greatseal.jpg (68K)" src="images/greatseal.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br />The Great Seal <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="dedication.jpg (21K)" src="images/dedication.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="inscription.jpg (16K)" src="images/inscription.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + <b> I will set down a tale as it was told to me by one who had it of his + father, which latter had it of HIS father, this last having in like + manner had it of HIS father—and so on, back and still back, three + hundred years and more, the fathers transmitting it to the sons and so + preserving it. It may be history, it may be only a legend, a + tradition. It may have happened, it may not have happened: but it + COULD have happened. It may be that the wise and the learned + believed it in the old days; it may be that only the unlearned and the + simple loved it and credited it.</b> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <h2> + CONTENTS + </h2> + <table summary=""> + <tr> + <td> + I. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c1">The birth of the Prince and the Pauper.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + II. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c2">Tom’s early life.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + III. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c3">Tom’s meeting with the Prince.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + IV. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c4">The Prince’s troubles begin.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + V. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c5">Tom as a patrician.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + VI. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c6">Tom receives instructions.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + VII. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c7">Tom’s first royal dinner.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + VIII. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c8">The question of the Seal.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + IX. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c9">The river pageant.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + X. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c10">The Prince in the toils.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XI. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c11">At Guildhall.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XII. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c12">The Prince and his deliverer.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XIII. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c13">The disappearance of the Prince.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XIV. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c14">‘Le Roi est mort’—vive le Roi.‘</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XV. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c15">Tom as King.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XVI. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c16">The state dinner.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XVII. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c17">Foo-foo the First.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XVIII. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c18">The Prince with the tramps.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XIX. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c19">The Prince with the peasants.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XX. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c20">The Prince and the hermit.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XXI. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c21">Hendon to the rescue.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XXII. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c22">A victim of treachery.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XXIII. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c23">The Prince a prisoner.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XXIV. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c24">The escape.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XXV. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c25">Hendon Hall.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XXVI. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c26">Disowned.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XXVII. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c27">In prison.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XXVIII. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c28">The sacrifice.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XXIX. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c29">To London.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XXX. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c30">Tom’s progress.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XXXI. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c31">The Recognition procession.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XXXII. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c32">Coronation Day</a>.<br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + XXXIII. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c33">Edward as King.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + CONCLUSION. + </td> + <td> + <a href="#c34">Justice and Retribution.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + + </td> + <td> + <a href="#link35-403">Notes.</a><br /> + </td> + </tr> + </table> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <h2> + ILLUSTRATIONS + </h2> + <p> + <a href="#greatseal">THE GREAT SEAL (frontispiece)</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link01-021">THE BIRTH OF THE PRINCE AND THE PAUPER</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link01-023">"SPLENDID PAGEANTS AND GREAT BONFIRES"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link02-025">TOM’S EARLY LIFE </a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link02-028">OFFAL COURT</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link02-029">"WITH + ANY MISERABLE CRUST"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link02-030">"HE OFTEN READ + THE PRIEST’S BOOKS"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link02-031">"SAW POOR + ANNE ASKEW BURNED"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link02-032">"BROUGHT THEIR + PERPLEXITIES TO TOM"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link02-033">"LONGING FOR THE + PORK-PIES” </a><br /><br /> <a href="#link03-035">TOM’S MEETING + WITH THE PRINCE</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link03-037">"AT TEMPLE BAR"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link03-039">"LET HIM IN"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link03-041">"HOW + OLD BE THESE</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link03-043">"DOFF THY RAGS, AND DON + THESE SPLENDORS" </a><br /><br /> <a href="#link03-046">"I SALUTE + YOUR GRACIOUS HIGHNESS!”</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link04-047">THE + PRINCE’S TROUBLES BEGIN</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link04-050">"SET + UPON BY DOGS"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link04-052">"A DRUNKEN RUFFIAN + COLLARED HIM"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link05-055">TOM AS A PATRICIAN</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link05-057">"NEXT HE DREW THE SWORD"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link05-058">"RESOLVED TO FLY"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link05-059">"THE + BOY WAS ON HIS KNEES"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link05-061">"NOBLES WALKED + UPON EACH SIDE OF HIM"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link05-062">"HE DROPPED + UPON HIS KNEES"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link05-064">"HE TURNED WITH JOYFUL + FACE"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link05-065">"THE PHYSICIAN BOWED LOW"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link05-067">"THE KING FELL BACK UPON HIS COUCH"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link05-068">"IS THIS MAN TO LIVE FOREVER?"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link06-071">TOM RECEIVES INSTRUCTIONS</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link06-073">"PRITHEE, INSIST NOT"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link06-075">"THE LORD ST. JOHN MADE REVERENCE"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link06-077">HERTFORD AND THE PRINCESSES</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link06-079">"SHE MADE REVERENCE"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link06-080">"OFFERED + IT TO HIM ON A GOLDEN SALVER"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link06-082">"THEY + MUSED A WHILE"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link06-083">"PEACE MY LORD, THOU + UTTEREST TREASON!”</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link06-084">"HE BEGAN TO + PACE THE FLOOR"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link07-087">TOM’S FIRST + ROYAL DINNER</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link07-089">"FASTENED A NAPKIN ABOUT + HIS NECK"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link07-091">"TOM ATE WITH HIS FINGERS"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link07-092">"HE GRAVELY TOOK A DRAUGHT"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link07-093">"TOM PUT ON THE GREAVES"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link08-095">THE QUESTION OF THE SEAL</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link08-098">"EASED HIM BACK UPON HIS PILLOWS"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link09-101">THE RIVER PAGEANT</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link09-104">"HALBERDIERS + APPEARED IN THE GATEWAY"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link09-106">"TOM CANTY + STEPPED INTO VIEW"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link10-107">THE PRINCE IN THE + TOILS</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link10-110">"A DIM FORM SANK TO THE GROUND"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link10-111">"WHO ART THOU?"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link10-113">"INTO + GOOD WIFE CANTY’S ARMS"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link10-115">"BENT + HEEDFULLY AND WARILY OVER HIM"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link10-116">"THE + PRINCE SPRANG UP"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link10-118">"HURRIED HIM ALONG + THE DARK WAY"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link10-120">"HE WASTE NO TIME"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link11-121">AT GUILDHALL</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link11-124">"A + RICH CANOPY OF STATE"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link11-127">"BEGAN TO LAY + ABOUT HIM"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link11-128">"LONG LIVE THE KING!”</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link12-131">THE PRINCE AND HIS DELIVERER</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link12-134">"OUR FRIENDS THREADED THEIR WAY"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link12-136">"OBJECT LESSONS” IN ENGLISH HISTORY</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link12-137">"JOHN CANTY MOVED OFF"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link12-139">"SMOOTHING BACK THE TANGLED CURLS"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link12-141">"PRITHEE, POUR THE WATER"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link12-142">"GO ON—TELL ME THY STORY</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link12-145">"THOU HAST BEEN SHAMEFULLY ABUSED"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link12-146">"HE DROPPED ON ONE KNEE"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link12-148">"RISE, SIR MILES HENDON, BARONET"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link13-149">THE DISAPPEARANCE OF THE PRINCE</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link13-151">"HE DROPPED ASLEEP"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link13-153">"THESE + BE VERY GOOD AND SOUND"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link13-155">"EXPLAIN, THOU + LIMB OF SATAN"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link13-156">"HENDON FOLLOWED AFTER + HIM"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link14-159">"LE ROI EST MORT-VIVE LE ROI"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link14-162">"WILT DEIGN TO DELIVER THY COMMANDS?"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link14-164">"LORD OF THE BEDCHAMBER"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link14-166">"A SECRETARY OF STATE"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link14-170">"STOOD AT GRACEFUL EASE"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link14-172">”’TIS I THAT TAKE THEM"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link14-175">"BUT TAX YOUR MEMORY"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link15-177">TOM AS KING</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link15-181">"TOM + HAD WANDERED TO A WINDOW"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link15-183">"TOM SCANNED + THE PRISONERS"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link15-187">"LET THE PRISONER GO + FREE!”</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link15-188">"WHAT IS IT THAT THESE + HAVE DONE?"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link15-190">"NODDED THEIR RECOGNITION"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link16-193">THE STATE DINNER</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link16-196">"A + GENTLEMAN BEARING A ROD"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link16-197">"THE + CHANCELLOR BETWEEN TWO"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link16-198">"I THANK YOU + MY GOOD PEOPLE"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link16-199">"IN THE MIDST OF HIS + PAGEANT"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link17-201">FOO-FOO THE FIRST</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link17-205">"RUFFIAN FOLLOWED THEIR STEPS"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link17-206">"HE SEIZED A BILLET OF WOOD"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link17-207">"HE WAS SOON ABSORBED IN THINKING"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link17-208">"A GRIM AND UNSIGHTLY PICTURE"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link17-210">"THEY ROARED OUT A ROLLICKING DITTY"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link17-212">"WHILST THE FLAMES LICKED UPWARDS"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link17-213">"THEY WERE WHIPPED AT THE CART’S TAIL"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link17-215">"THOU SHALT NOT"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link17-216">"KNOCKING + HOBBS DOWN"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link17-218">"THRONE HIM"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link18-221">THE PRINCE WITH THE TRAMPS</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link18-224">"TROOP OF VAGABONDS SET FORWARD"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link18-225">"THEY THREW BONES AND VEGETABLES</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link18-227">"WRITHE AND WALLOW IN THE DIRT"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link18-228">"KING FLED IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link18-230">"HE STUMBLED ALONG"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link18-232">"WHAT + SEEMED TO BE A WARM ROPE"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link18-233">"CUDDLED UP + TO THE CALF"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link19-235">THE PRINCE WITH THE + PEASANTS</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link19-239">"TOOK A GOOD SATISFYING + STARE"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link19-240">"MOTHER RECEIVED THE KING + KINDLY"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link19-242">"BROUGHT THE KING OUT OF HIS + DREAMS"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link19-244">"GAVE HIM A BUTCHER KNIFE TO + GRIND"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link20-245">THE PRINCE AND THE HERMIT</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link20-248">"HE TURNED AND DESCRIED TWO FIGURES"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link20-249">"THE KING ENTERED AND PAUSED"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link20-251">"I WILL TELL YOU A SECRET"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link20-253">"CHATTING PLEASANTLY ALL THE TIME"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link20-255">"DREW HIS THUMB ALONG THE EDGE"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link20-256">"THE NEXT MOMENT THEY WERE BOUND"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link21-257">HENDON TO THE RESCUE</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link21-260">"SUNK + UPON HIS KNEES"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link21-262">"GOD MADE EVERY + CREATURE BUT YOU!”</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link21-264">"THE FETTERED + LITTLE KING"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link22-267">A VICTIM OF TREACHERY</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link22-270">"HUGO STOOD NO CHANCE"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link22-272">"BOUND THE POULTICE TIGHT AND FAST"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link22-274">"TARRY HERE TILL I COME AGAIN</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link22-276">"KING SPRANG TO HIS DELIVERER’S SIDE"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link23-279">THE PRINCE A PRISONER</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link23-282">"GENTLY, GOOD FRIEND"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link23-284">"SHE SPRANG TO HER FEET"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link24-287">THE ESCAPE</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link24-290">"THE PIG + MAY COST THY NECK, MAN"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link24-292">"BEAR ME UP, + BEAR ME UP, SWEET SIR!”</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link25-293">HENDON + HALL</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link25-296">"JOGGING EASTWARD ON SORRY + STEEDS"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link25-297">"THERE IS THE VILLAGE, MY + PRINCE!”</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link25-299">”’EMBRACE ME, + HUGH,’ HE CRIED"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link25-301">"HUGH PUT UP + HIS HAND IN DISSENT"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link25-303">"A BEAUTIFUL + LADY, RICHLY CLOTHED"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link25-305">"HUGH WAS PINNED + TO THE WALL"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link26-307">DISOWNED</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link26-310">"OBEY, AND HAVE NO FEAR"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link26-313">"AM I MILES HENDON?"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link27-315">IN + PRISON</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link27-318">"CHAINED IN A LARGE ROOM"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link27-320">"THE OLD MAN LOOKED HENDON OVER"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link27-321">"INFORMATION DELIVERED IN A LOW VOICE"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link27-323">"THE KING!” HE CRIED. “WHAT KING?"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link27-326">"TWO WOMEN CHAINED TO POSTS"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link27-328">"TORN AWAY BY THE OFFICERS"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link27-329">"THE KING WAS FURIOUS"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link28-331">THE SACRIFICE</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link28-334">"HE + CONFRONTED THE OFFICER IN CHARGE"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link28-336">"WHILE + THE LASH WAS APPLIED"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link28-337">"SIR HUGH + SPURRED AWAY"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link29-339">TO LONDON</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link29-342">"MOUNTED AND RODE OFF WITH THE KING"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link29-343">"MIDST OF A JAM OF HOWLING PEOPLE"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link30-345">TOM’S PROGRESS</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link30-348">"TO + KISS HIS HAND AT PARTING"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link30-348">"COMMANDED + HER TO GO TO HER CLOSET"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link31-351">THE + RECOGNITION PROCESSION</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link31-353">THE START FOR + THE TOWER</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link31-355">"WELCOME, O KING!”</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link31-356">"A LARGESS! A LARGESS!”</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link31-359">"SHE WAS AT HIS SIDE"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link31-361">"IT IS AN ILL TIME FOR DREAMING"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link31-362">"SHE WAS MY MOTHER"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link32-363">CORONATION + DAY</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link32-366">"GATHERS UP THE LADY’S LONG + TRAIN"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link32-368">"TOM CANTY APPEARED"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link32-370">"AND FELL ON HIS KNEES BEFORE HIM"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link32-373">"THE GREAT SEAL—FETCH IT HITHER"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link32-375">"SIRE, THE SEAL IS NOT THERE"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link32-377">"BETHINK THEE, MY KING"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link32-379">"LONG LIVE THE TRUE KING!”</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link32-381">"TO CRACK NUTS WITH"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link33-383">EDWARD + AS KING</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link33-386">"HE STRETCHED HIMSELF ON THE + GROUND"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link33-389">"ARRESTED AS A SUSPICIOUS + CHARACTER"</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link33-392">"IT IS HIS RIGHT"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link33-394">"STRIP THIS ROBBER"</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link33-395">"TOM ROSE AND KISSED THE KING’S HAND"</a><br /><br /> + <a href="#link34-397">JUSTICE AND RETRIBUTION</a><br /><br /> <a + href="#link35-403">NOTES</a><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /> + <a name="c1" id="c1"></a> <a name="link01-021" id="link01-021"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link01-021.jpg (73K)" src="images/01-021.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link01-023" id="link01-023"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link01-023.jpg (147K)" src="images/01-023.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter I. The birth of the Prince and the Pauper. + </p> + <p> + In the ancient city of London, on a certain autumn day in the second + quarter of the sixteenth century, a boy was born to a poor family of the + name of Canty, who did not want him. On the same day another English + child was born to a rich family of the name of Tudor, who did want him. + All England wanted him too. England had so longed for him, and hoped + for him, and prayed God for him, that, now that he was really come, the + people went nearly mad for joy. Mere acquaintances hugged and kissed + each other and cried. Everybody took a holiday, and high and low, rich and + poor, feasted and danced and sang, and got very mellow; and they kept this + up for days and nights together. By day, London was a sight to see, + with gay banners waving from every balcony and housetop, and splendid + pageants marching along. By night, it was again a sight to see, with + its great bonfires at every corner, and its troops of revellers making + merry around them. There was no talk in all England but of the new + baby, Edward Tudor, Prince of Wales, who lay lapped in silks and satins, + unconscious of all this fuss, and not knowing that great lords and ladies + were tending him and watching over him—and not caring, either. + But there was no talk about the other baby, Tom Canty, lapped in his + poor rags, except among the family of paupers whom he had just come to + trouble with his presence. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c2" id="c2"></a> <a + name="link02-025" id="link02-025"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link02-025.jpg (57K)" src="images/02-025.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter II. Tom’s early life. + </p> + <p> + Let us skip a number of years. + </p> + <p> + London was fifteen hundred years old, and was a great town—for that + day. It had a hundred thousand inhabitants—some think double as + many. The streets were very narrow, and crooked, and dirty, + especially in the part where Tom Canty lived, which was not far from + London Bridge. The houses were of wood, with the second story + projecting over the first, and the third sticking its elbows out beyond + the second. The higher the houses grew, the broader they grew. + They were skeletons of strong criss-cross beams, with solid material + between, coated with plaster. The beams were painted red or blue or + black, according to the owner’s taste, and this gave the houses a + very picturesque look. The windows were small, glazed with little + diamond-shaped panes, and they opened outward, on hinges, like doors. + </p> + <p> + The house which Tom’s father lived in was up a foul little pocket + called Offal Court, out of Pudding Lane. It was small, decayed, and + rickety, but it was packed full of wretchedly poor families. Canty’s + tribe occupied a room on the third floor. The mother and father had + a sort of bedstead in the corner; but Tom, his grandmother, and his two + sisters, Bet and Nan, were not restricted—they had all the floor to + themselves, and might sleep where they chose. There were the remains + of a blanket or two, and some bundles of ancient and dirty straw, but + these could not rightly be called beds, for they were not organised; they + were kicked into a general pile, mornings, and selections made from the + mass at night, for service. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link02-028" id="link02-028"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link02-028.jpg (94K)" src="images/02-028.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Bet and Nan were fifteen years old—twins. They were + good-hearted girls, unclean, clothed in rags, and profoundly ignorant. + Their mother was like them. But the father and the grandmother + were a couple of fiends. They got drunk whenever they could; then + they fought each other or anybody else who came in the way; they cursed + and swore always, drunk or sober; John Canty was a thief, and his mother a + beggar. They made beggars of the children, but failed to make + thieves of them. Among, but not of, the dreadful rabble that + inhabited the house, was a good old priest whom the King had turned out of + house and home with a pension of a few farthings, and he used to get the + children aside and teach them right ways secretly. Father Andrew also + taught Tom a little Latin, and how to read and write; and would have done + the same with the girls, but they were afraid of the jeers of their + friends, who could not have endured such a queer accomplishment in them. + </p> + <p> + All Offal Court was just such another hive as Canty’s house. + Drunkenness, riot and brawling were the order, there, every night and + nearly all night long. Broken heads were as common as hunger in that + place. Yet little Tom was not unhappy. He had a hard time of + it, but did not know it. It was the sort of time that all the Offal + Court boys had, therefore he supposed it was the correct and comfortable + thing. When he came home empty-handed at night, he knew his father + would curse him and thrash him first, and that when he was done the awful + grandmother would do it all over again and improve on it; and that away in + the night his starving mother would slip to him stealthily with any + miserable scrap or crust she had been able to save for him by going hungry + herself, notwithstanding she was often caught in that sort of treason and + soundly beaten for it by her husband. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link02-029" id="link02-029"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link02-029.jpg (55K)" src="images/02-029.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + No, Tom’s life went along well enough, especially in summer. He + only begged just enough to save himself, for the laws against mendicancy + were stringent, and the penalties heavy; so he put in a good deal of his + time listening to good Father Andrew’s charming old tales and + legends about giants and fairies, dwarfs and genii, and enchanted castles, + and gorgeous kings and princes. His head grew to be full of these + wonderful things, and many a night as he lay in the dark on his scant and + offensive straw, tired, hungry, and smarting from a thrashing, he + unleashed his imagination and soon forgot his aches and pains in delicious + picturings to himself of the charmed life of a petted prince in a regal + palace. One desire came in time to haunt him day and night: it + was to see a real prince, with his own eyes. He spoke of it once to + some of his Offal Court comrades; but they jeered him and scoffed him so + unmercifully that he was glad to keep his dream to himself after that. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link02-030" id="link02-030"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link02-030.jpg (80K)" src="images/02-030.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + He often read the priest’s old books and got him to explain and + enlarge upon them. His dreamings and readings worked certain changes + in him, by- and-by. His dream-people were so fine that he grew to + lament his shabby clothing and his dirt, and to wish to be clean and + better clad. He went on playing in the mud just the same, and + enjoying it, too; but, instead of splashing around in the Thames solely + for the fun of it, he began to find an added value in it because of the + washings and cleansings it afforded. + </p> + <p> + Tom could always find something going on around the Maypole in Cheapside, + and at the fairs; and now and then he and the rest of London had a chance + to see a military parade when some famous unfortunate was carried prisoner + to the Tower, by land or boat. One summer’s day he saw poor Anne + Askew and three men burned at the stake in Smithfield, and heard an + ex-Bishop preach a sermon to them which did not interest him. Yes, + Tom’s life was varied and pleasant enough, on the whole. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link02-031" id="link02-031"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link02-031.jpg (171K)" src="images/02-031.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + By-and-by Tom’s reading and dreaming about princely life wrought + such a strong effect upon him that he began to <i>act</i> the prince, + unconsciously. His speech and manners became curiously ceremonious and + courtly, to the vast admiration and amusement of his intimates. But + Tom’s influence among these young people began to grow now, day by + day; and in time he came to be looked up to, by them, with a sort of + wondering awe, as a superior being. He seemed to know so much! and + he could do and say such marvellous things! and withal, he was so deep and + wise! Tom’s remarks, and Tom’s performances, were + reported by the boys to their elders; and these, also, presently began to + discuss Tom Canty, and to regard him as a most gifted and extraordinary + creature. Full-grown people brought their perplexities to Tom for + solution, and were often astonished at the wit and wisdom of his + decisions. In fact he was become a hero to all who knew him except + his own family—these, only, saw nothing in him. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link02-032" id="link02-032"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link02-032.jpg (47K)" src="images/02-032.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Privately, after a while, Tom organised a royal court! He was the + prince; his special comrades were guards, chamberlains, equerries, lords + and ladies in waiting, and the royal family. Daily the mock prince + was received with elaborate ceremonials borrowed by Tom from his romantic + readings; daily the great affairs of the mimic kingdom were discussed in + the royal council, and daily his mimic highness issued decrees to his + imaginary armies, navies, and viceroyalties. + </p> + <p> + After which, he would go forth in his rags and beg a few farthings, eat + his poor crust, take his customary cuffs and abuse, and then stretch + himself upon his handful of foul straw, and resume his empty grandeurs in + his dreams. + </p> + <p> + And still his desire to look just once upon a real prince, in the flesh, + grew upon him, day by day, and week by week, until at last it absorbed all + other desires, and became the one passion of his life. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link02-033" id="link02-033"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link02-033.jpg (41K)" src="images/02-033.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + One January day, on his usual begging tour, he tramped despondently up and + down the region round about Mincing Lane and Little East Cheap, hour after + hour, bare-footed and cold, looking in at cook-shop windows and longing + for the dreadful pork-pies and other deadly inventions displayed there—for + to him these were dainties fit for the angels; that is, judging by the + smell, they were—for it had never been his good luck to own and eat + one. There was a cold drizzle of rain; the atmosphere was murky; it was a + melancholy day. At night Tom reached home so wet and tired and + hungry that it was not possible for his father and grandmother to observe + his forlorn condition and not be moved—after their fashion; + wherefore they gave him a brisk cuffing at once and sent him to bed. + For a long time his pain and hunger, and the swearing and fighting + going on in the building, kept him awake; but at last his thoughts drifted + away to far, romantic lands, and he fell asleep in the company of jewelled + and gilded princelings who live in vast palaces, and had servants + salaaming before them or flying to execute their orders. And then, + as usual, he dreamed that <i>he</i> was a princeling himself. + </p> + <p> + All night long the glories of his royal estate shone upon him; he moved + among great lords and ladies, in a blaze of light, breathing perfumes, + drinking in delicious music, and answering the reverent obeisances of the + glittering throng as it parted to make way for him, with here a smile, and + there a nod of his princely head. + </p> + <p> + And when he awoke in the morning and looked upon the wretchedness about + him, his dream had had its usual effect—it had intensified the + sordidness of his surroundings a thousandfold. Then came bitterness, + and heart-break, and tears. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c3" id="c3"></a> <a + name="link03-035" id="link03-035"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link03-035.jpg (77K)" src="images/03-035.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link03-037" id="link03-037"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link03-037.jpg (143K)" src="images/03-037.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter III. Tom’s meeting with the Prince. + </p> + <p> + Tom got up hungry, and sauntered hungry away, but with his thoughts busy + with the shadowy splendours of his night’s dreams. He wandered here + and there in the city, hardly noticing where he was going, or what was + happening around him. People jostled him, and some gave him rough + speech; but it was all lost on the musing boy. By-and-by he found + himself at Temple Bar, the farthest from home he had ever travelled in + that direction. He stopped and considered a moment, then fell into + his imaginings again, and passed on outside the walls of London. The + Strand had ceased to be a country-road then, and regarded itself as a + street, but by a strained construction; for, though there was a tolerably + compact row of houses on one side of it, there were only some scattered + great buildings on the other, these being palaces of rich nobles, with + ample and beautiful grounds stretching to the river—grounds that are + now closely packed with grim acres of brick and stone. + </p> + <p> + Tom discovered Charing Village presently, and rested himself at the + beautiful cross built there by a bereaved king of earlier days; then idled + down a quiet, lovely road, past the great cardinal’s stately palace, + toward a far more mighty and majestic palace beyond—Westminster. Tom + stared in glad wonder at the vast pile of masonry, the wide-spreading + wings, the frowning bastions and turrets, the huge stone gateway, with its + gilded bars and its magnificent array of colossal granite lions, and other + the signs and symbols of English royalty. Was the desire of his soul + to be satisfied at last? Here, indeed, was a king’s palace. + Might he not hope to see a prince now—a prince of flesh and + blood, if Heaven were willing? + </p> + <p> + At each side of the gilded gate stood a living statue—that is to + say, an erect and stately and motionless man-at-arms, clad from head to + heel in shining steel armour. At a respectful distance were many + country folk, and people from the city, waiting for any chance glimpse of + royalty that might offer. Splendid carriages, with splendid people + in them and splendid servants outside, were arriving and departing by + several other noble gateways that pierced the royal enclosure. + </p> + <p> + Poor little Tom, in his rags, approached, and was moving slowly and + timidly past the sentinels, with a beating heart and a rising hope, when + all at once he caught sight through the golden bars of a spectacle that + almost made him shout for joy. Within was a comely boy, tanned and + brown with sturdy outdoor sports and exercises, whose clothing was all of + lovely silks and satins, shining with jewels; at his hip a little jewelled + sword and dagger; dainty buskins on his feet, with red heels; and on his + head a jaunty crimson cap, with drooping plumes fastened with a great + sparkling gem. Several gorgeous gentlemen stood near—his + servants, without a doubt. Oh! he was a prince—a prince, a + living prince, a real prince—without the shadow of a question; and + the prayer of the pauper-boy’s heart was answered at last. + </p> + <p> + Tom’s breath came quick and short with excitement, and his eyes grew + big with wonder and delight. Everything gave way in his mind + instantly to one desire: that was to get close to the prince, and + have a good, devouring look at him. Before he knew what he was + about, he had his face against the gate-bars. The next instant one + of the soldiers snatched him rudely away, and sent him spinning among the + gaping crowd of country gawks and London idlers. The soldier said,— + </p> + <p> + “Mind thy manners, thou young beggar!” + </p> + <p> + The crowd jeered and laughed; but the young prince sprang to the gate with + his face flushed, and his eyes flashing with indignation, and cried out,— + </p> + <p> + “How dar’st thou use a poor lad like that? How dar’st + thou use the King my father’s meanest subject so? Open the + gates, and let him in!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link03-039" id="link03-039"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link03-039.jpg (171K)" src="images/03-039.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + You should have seen that fickle crowd snatch off their hats then. You + should have heard them cheer, and shout, “Long live the Prince of + Wales!” + </p> + <p> + The soldiers presented arms with their halberds, opened the gates, and + presented again as the little Prince of Poverty passed in, in his + fluttering rags, to join hands with the Prince of Limitless Plenty. + </p> + <p> + Edward Tudor said— + </p> + <p> + “Thou lookest tired and hungry: thou’st been treated + ill. Come with me.” + </p> + <p> + Half a dozen attendants sprang forward to—I don’t know what; + interfere, no doubt. But they were waved aside with a right royal + gesture, and they stopped stock still where they were, like so many + statues. Edward took Tom to a rich apartment in the palace, which he + called his cabinet. By his command a repast was brought such as Tom + had never encountered before except in books. The prince, with + princely delicacy and breeding, sent away the servants, so that his humble + guest might not be embarrassed by their critical presence; then he sat + near by, and asked questions while Tom ate. + </p> + <p> + “What is thy name, lad?” + </p> + <p> + “Tom Canty, an’ it please thee, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “’Tis an odd one. Where dost live?” + </p> + <p> + “In the city, please thee, sir. Offal Court, out of Pudding + Lane.” + </p> + <p> + “Offal Court! Truly ’tis another odd one. Hast + parents?” + </p> + <p> + “Parents have I, sir, and a grand-dam likewise that is but + indifferently precious to me, God forgive me if it be offence to say it—also + twin sisters, Nan and Bet.” + </p> + <p> + “Then is thy grand-dam not over kind to thee, I take it?” + </p> + <p> + “Neither to any other is she, so please your worship. She hath + a wicked heart, and worketh evil all her days.” + </p> + <p> + “Doth she mistreat thee?” + </p> + <p> + “There be times that she stayeth her hand, being asleep or overcome + with drink; but when she hath her judgment clear again, she maketh it up + to me with goodly beatings.” + </p> + <p> + A fierce look came into the little prince’s eyes, and he cried out— + </p> + <p> + “What! Beatings?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, indeed, yes, please you, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>Beatings</i>!—and thou so frail and little. Hark ye: + before the night come, she shall hie her to the Tower. The + King my father”— + </p> + <p> + “In sooth, you forget, sir, her low degree. The Tower is for + the great alone.” + </p> + <p> + “True, indeed. I had not thought of that. I will + consider of her punishment. Is thy father kind to thee?” + </p> + <p> + “Not more than Gammer Canty, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Fathers be alike, mayhap. Mine hath not a doll’s + temper. He smiteth with a heavy hand, yet spareth me: he + spareth me not always with his tongue, though, sooth to say. How + doth thy mother use thee?” + </p> + <p> + “She is good, sir, and giveth me neither sorrow nor pain of any + sort. And Nan and Bet are like to her in this.” + </p> + <p> + “How old be these?” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link03-041" id="link03-041"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link03-041.jpg (85K)" src="images/03-041.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Fifteen, an’ it please you, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “The Lady Elizabeth, my sister, is fourteen, and the Lady Jane Grey, + my cousin, is of mine own age, and comely and gracious withal; but my + sister the Lady Mary, with her gloomy mien and—Look you: do + thy sisters forbid their servants to smile, lest the sin destroy their + souls?” + </p> + <p> + “They? Oh, dost think, sir, that <i>they</i> have servants?” + </p> + <p> + The little prince contemplated the little pauper gravely a moment, then + said— + </p> + <p> + “And prithee, why not? Who helpeth them undress at night? + Who attireth them when they rise?” + </p> + <p> + “None, sir. Would’st have them take off their garment, + and sleep without—like the beasts?” + </p> + <p> + “Their garment! Have they but one?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, good your worship, what would they do with more? Truly + they have not two bodies each.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a quaint and marvellous thought! Thy pardon, I had not + meant to laugh. But thy good Nan and thy Bet shall have raiment and + lackeys enow, and that soon, too: my cofferer shall look to it. + No, thank me not; ’tis nothing. Thou speakest well; thou + hast an easy grace in it. Art learned?” + </p> + <p> + “I know not if I am or not, sir. The good priest that is + called Father Andrew taught me, of his kindness, from his books.” + </p> + <p> + “Know’st thou the Latin?” + </p> + <p> + “But scantly, sir, I doubt.” + </p> + <p> + “Learn it, lad: ’tis hard only at first. The Greek + is harder; but neither these nor any tongues else, I think, are hard to + the Lady Elizabeth and my cousin. Thou should’st hear those + damsels at it! But tell me of thy Offal Court. Hast thou a + pleasant life there?” + </p> + <p> + “In truth, yes, so please you, sir, save when one is hungry. There + be Punch-and-Judy shows, and monkeys—oh such antic creatures! and so + bravely dressed!—and there be plays wherein they that play do shout + and fight till all are slain, and ’tis so fine to see, and costeth + but a farthing—albeit ’tis main hard to get the farthing, + please your worship.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me more.” + </p> + <p> + “We lads of Offal Court do strive against each other with the + cudgel, like to the fashion of the ’prentices, sometimes.” + </p> + <p> + The prince’s eyes flashed. Said he— + </p> + <p> + “Marry, that would not I mislike. Tell me more.” + </p> + <p> + “We strive in races, sir, to see who of us shall be fleetest.” + </p> + <p> + “That would I like also. Speak on.” + </p> + <p> + “In summer, sir, we wade and swim in the canals and in the river, + and each doth duck his neighbour, and splatter him with water, and dive + and shout and tumble and—” + </p> + <p> + “’Twould be worth my father’s kingdom but to enjoy it + once! Prithee go on.” + </p> + <p> + “We dance and sing about the Maypole in Cheapside; we play in the + sand, each covering his neighbour up; and times we make mud pastry—oh + the lovely mud, it hath not its like for delightfulness in all the world!—we + do fairly wallow in the mud, sir, saving your worship’s presence.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, prithee, say no more, ’tis glorious! If that I + could but clothe me in raiment like to thine, and strip my feet, and revel + in the mud once, just once, with none to rebuke me or forbid, meseemeth I + could forego the crown!” + </p> + <p> + “And if that I could clothe me once, sweet sir, as thou art clad—just + once—” + </p> + <p> + “Oho, would’st like it? Then so shall it be. Doff + thy rags, and don these splendours, lad! It is a brief happiness, + but will be not less keen for that. We will have it while we may, + and change again before any come to molest.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link03-043" id="link03-043"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link03-043.jpg (201K)" src="images/03-043.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + A few minutes later the little Prince of Wales was garlanded with Tom’s + fluttering odds and ends, and the little Prince of Pauperdom was tricked + out in the gaudy plumage of royalty. The two went and stood side by + side before a great mirror, and lo, a miracle: there did not seem to have + been any change made! They stared at each other, then at the glass, + then at each other again. At last the puzzled princeling said— + </p> + <p> + “What dost thou make of this?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, good your worship, require me not to answer. It is not + meet that one of my degree should utter the thing.” + </p> + <p> + “Then will <i>I</i> utter it. Thou hast the same hair, the + same eyes, the same voice and manner, the same form and stature, the same + face and countenance that I bear. Fared we forth naked, there is + none could say which was you, and which the Prince of Wales. And, + now that I am clothed as thou wert clothed, it seemeth I should be able + the more nearly to feel as thou didst when the brute soldier—Hark + ye, is not this a bruise upon your hand?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; but it is a slight thing, and your worship knoweth that the + poor man-at-arms—” + </p> + <p> + “Peace! It was a shameful thing and a cruel!” cried the + little prince, stamping his bare foot. "If the King—Stir not a + step till I come again! It is a command!” + </p> + <p> + In a moment he had snatched up and put away an article of national + importance that lay upon a table, and was out at the door and flying + through the palace grounds in his bannered rags, with a hot face and + glowing eyes. As soon as he reached the great gate, he seized the + bars, and tried to shake them, shouting— + </p> + <p> + “Open! Unbar the gates!” + </p> + <p> + The soldier that had maltreated Tom obeyed promptly; and as the prince + burst through the portal, half-smothered with royal wrath, the soldier + fetched him a sounding box on the ear that sent him whirling to the + roadway, and said— + </p> + <p> + “Take that, thou beggar’s spawn, for what thou got’st me + from his Highness!” + </p> + <p> + The crowd roared with laughter. The prince picked himself out of the + mud, and made fiercely at the sentry, shouting— + </p> + <p> + “I am the Prince of Wales, my person is sacred; and thou shalt hang + for laying thy hand upon me!” + </p> + <p> + The soldier brought his halberd to a present-arms and said mockingly— + </p> + <p> + “I salute your gracious Highness.” Then angrily—“Be + off, thou crazy rubbish!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link03-046" id="link03-046"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link03-046.jpg (154K)" src="images/03-046.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Here the jeering crowd closed round the poor little prince, and hustled + him far down the road, hooting him, and shouting— + </p> + <p> + “Way for his Royal Highness! Way for the Prince of Wales!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c4" id="c4"></a> <a + name="link04-047" id="link04-047"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link04-047.jpg (47K)" src="images/04-047.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter IV. The Prince’s troubles begin. + </p> + <p> + After hours of persistent pursuit and persecution, the little prince was + at last deserted by the rabble and left to himself. As long as he + had been able to rage against the mob, and threaten it royally, and + royally utter commands that were good stuff to laugh at, he was very + entertaining; but when weariness finally forced him to be silent, he was + no longer of use to his tormentors, and they sought amusement elsewhere. + He looked about him, now, but could not recognise the locality. He + was within the city of London—that was all he knew. He moved + on, aimlessly, and in a little while the houses thinned, and the + passers-by were infrequent. He bathed his bleeding feet in the brook + which flowed then where Farringdon Street now is; rested a few moments, + then passed on, and presently came upon a great space with only a few + scattered houses in it, and a prodigious church. He recognised this + church. Scaffoldings were about, everywhere, and swarms of workmen; + for it was undergoing elaborate repairs. The prince took heart at + once—he felt that his troubles were at an end, now. He said to + himself, “It is the ancient Grey Friars’ Church, which the + king my father hath taken from the monks and given for a home for ever for + poor and forsaken children, and new-named it Christ’s Church. Right + gladly will they serve the son of him who hath done so generously by them—and + the more that that son is himself as poor and as forlorn as any that be + sheltered here this day, or ever shall be.” + </p> + <p> + He was soon in the midst of a crowd of boys who were running, jumping, + playing at ball and leap-frog, and otherwise disporting themselves, and + right noisily, too. They were all dressed alike, and in the fashion + which in that day prevailed among serving-men and ’prentices{1}—that + is to say, each had on the crown of his head a flat black cap about the + size of a saucer, which was not useful as a covering, it being of such + scanty dimensions, neither was it ornamental; from beneath it the hair + fell, unparted, to the middle of the forehead, and was cropped straight + around; a clerical band at the neck; a blue gown that fitted closely and + hung as low as the knees or lower; full sleeves; a broad red belt; bright + yellow stockings, gartered above the knees; low shoes with large metal + buckles. It was a sufficiently ugly costume. + </p> + <p> + The boys stopped their play and flocked about the prince, who said with + native dignity— + </p> + <p> + “Good lads, say to your master that Edward Prince of Wales desireth + speech with him.” + </p> + <p> + A great shout went up at this, and one rude fellow said— + </p> + <p> + “Marry, art thou his grace’s messenger, beggar?” + </p> + <p> + The prince’s face flushed with anger, and his ready hand flew to his + hip, but there was nothing there. There was a storm of laughter, and + one boy said— + </p> + <p> + “Didst mark that? He fancied he had a sword—belike he is + the prince himself.” + </p> + <p> + This sally brought more laughter. Poor Edward drew himself up + proudly and said— + </p> + <p> + “I am the prince; and it ill beseemeth you that feed upon the king + my father’s bounty to use me so.” + </p> + <p> + This was vastly enjoyed, as the laughter testified. The youth who + had first spoken, shouted to his comrades— + </p> + <p> + “Ho, swine, slaves, pensioners of his grace’s princely father, + where be your manners? Down on your marrow bones, all of ye, and do + reverence to his kingly port and royal rags!” + </p> + <p> + With boisterous mirth they dropped upon their knees in a body and did mock + homage to their prey. The prince spurned the nearest boy with his + foot, and said fiercely— + </p> + <p> + “Take thou that, till the morrow come and I build thee a gibbet!” + </p> + <p> + Ah, but this was not a joke—this was going beyond fun. The + laughter ceased on the instant, and fury took its place. A dozen + shouted— + </p> + <p> + “Hale him forth! To the horse-pond, to the horse-pond! Where + be the dogs? Ho, there, Lion! ho, Fangs!” + </p> + <p> + Then followed such a thing as England had never seen before—the + sacred person of the heir to the throne rudely buffeted by plebeian hands, + and set upon and torn by dogs. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link04-050" id="link04-050"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link04-050.jpg (84K)" src="images/04-050.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + As night drew to a close that day, the prince found himself far down in + the close-built portion of the city. His body was bruised, his hands + were bleeding, and his rags were all besmirched with mud. He + wandered on and on, and grew more and more bewildered, and so tired and + faint he could hardly drag one foot after the other. He had ceased + to ask questions of anyone, since they brought him only insult instead of + information. He kept muttering to himself, “Offal Court—that + is the name; if I can but find it before my strength is wholly spent and I + drop, then am I saved—for his people will take me to the palace and + prove that I am none of theirs, but the true prince, and I shall have mine + own again.” And now and then his mind reverted to his + treatment by those rude Christ’s Hospital boys, and he said, “When + I am king, they shall not have bread and shelter only, but also teachings + out of books; for a full belly is little worth where the mind is starved, + and the heart. I will keep this diligently in my remembrance, that + this day’s lesson be not lost upon me, and my people suffer thereby; + for learning softeneth the heart and breedeth gentleness and charity.” + {1} + </p> + <p> + The lights began to twinkle, it came on to rain, the wind rose, and a raw + and gusty night set in. The houseless prince, the homeless heir to + the throne of England, still moved on, drifting deeper into the maze of + squalid alleys where the swarming hives of poverty and misery were massed + together. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly a great drunken ruffian collared him and said— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link04-052" id="link04-052"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link04-052.jpg (80K)" src="images/04-052.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Out to this time of night again, and hast not brought a farthing + home, I warrant me! If it be so, an’ I do not break all the + bones in thy lean body, then am I not John Canty, but some other.” + </p> + <p> + The prince twisted himself loose, unconsciously brushed his profaned + shoulder, and eagerly said— + </p> + <p> + “Oh, art <i>his</i> father, truly? Sweet heaven grant it be so—then + wilt thou fetch him away and restore me!” + </p> + <p> + “<i>His</i> father? I know not what thou mean’st; I but + know I am <i>thy</i> father, as thou shalt soon have cause to—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, jest not, palter not, delay not!—I am worn, I am wounded, + I can bear no more. Take me to the king my father, and he will make + thee rich beyond thy wildest dreams. Believe me, man, believe me!—I + speak no lie, but only the truth!—put forth thy hand and save me! + I am indeed the Prince of Wales!” + </p> + <p> + The man stared down, stupefied, upon the lad, then shook his head and + muttered— + </p> + <p> + “Gone stark mad as any Tom o’ Bedlam!”—then + collared him once more, and said with a coarse laugh and an oath, “But + mad or no mad, I and thy Gammer Canty will soon find where the soft places + in thy bones lie, or I’m no true man!” + </p> + <p> + With this he dragged the frantic and struggling prince away, and + disappeared up a front court followed by a delighted and noisy swarm of + human vermin. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c5" id="c5"></a> <a + name="link05-055" id="link05-055"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link05-055.jpg (73K)" src="images/05-055.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link05-057" id="link05-057"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link05-057.jpg (129K)" src="images/05-057.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter V. Tom as a Patrician. + </p> + <p> + Tom Canty, left alone in the prince’s cabinet, made good use of his + opportunity. He turned himself this way and that before the great + mirror, admiring his finery; then walked away, imitating the prince’s + high-bred carriage, and still observing results in the glass. Next + he drew the beautiful sword, and bowed, kissing the blade, and laying it + across his breast, as he had seen a noble knight do, by way of salute to + the lieutenant of the Tower, five or six weeks before, when delivering the + great lords of Norfolk and Surrey into his hands for captivity. Tom + played with the jewelled dagger that hung upon his thigh; he examined the + costly and exquisite ornaments of the room; he tried each of the sumptuous + chairs, and thought how proud he would be if the Offal Court herd could + only peep in and see him in his grandeur. He wondered if they would + believe the marvellous tale he should tell when he got home, or if they + would shake their heads, and say his overtaxed imagination had at last + upset his reason. + </p> + <p> + At the end of half an hour it suddenly occurred to him that the prince was + gone a long time; then right away he began to feel lonely; very soon he + fell to listening and longing, and ceased to toy with the pretty things + about him; he grew uneasy, then restless, then distressed. Suppose some + one should come, and catch him in the prince’s clothes, and the + prince not there to explain. Might they not hang him at once, and + inquire into his case afterward? He had heard that the great were + prompt about small matters. His fear rose higher and higher; and + trembling he softly opened the door to the antechamber, resolved to fly + and seek the prince, and, through him, protection and release. Six + gorgeous gentlemen-servants and two young pages of high degree, clothed + like butterflies, sprang to their feet and bowed low before him. He + stepped quickly back and shut the door. He said— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link05-058" id="link05-058"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link05-058.jpg (138K)" src="images/05-058.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Oh, they mock at me! They will go and tell. Oh! why + came I here to cast away my life?” + </p> + <p> + He walked up and down the floor, filled with nameless fears, listening, + starting at every trifling sound. Presently the door swung open, and + a silken page said— + </p> + <p> + “The Lady Jane Grey.” + </p> + <p> + The door closed and a sweet young girl, richly clad, bounded toward him. + But she stopped suddenly, and said in a distressed voice— + </p> + <p> + “Oh, what aileth thee, my lord?” + </p> + <p> + Tom’s breath was nearly failing him; but he made shift to stammer + out— + </p> + <p> + “Ah, be merciful, thou! In sooth I am no lord, but only poor + Tom Canty of Offal Court in the city. Prithee let me see the prince, + and he will of his grace restore to me my rags, and let me hence unhurt. + Oh, be thou merciful, and save me!” + </p> + <p> + By this time the boy was on his knees, and supplicating with his eyes and + uplifted hands as well as with his tongue. The young girl seemed + horror-stricken. She cried out— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link05-059" id="link05-059"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link05-059.jpg (104K)" src="images/05-059.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “O my lord, on thy knees?—and to <i>me</i>!” + </p> + <p> + Then she fled away in fright; and Tom, smitten with despair, sank down, + murmuring— + </p> + <p> + “There is no help, there is no hope. Now will they come and + take me.” + </p> + <p> + Whilst he lay there benumbed with terror, dreadful tidings were speeding + through the palace. The whisper—for it was whispered always—flew + from menial to menial, from lord to lady, down all the long corridors, + from story to story, from saloon to saloon, “The prince hath gone + mad, the prince hath gone mad!” Soon every saloon, every + marble hall, had its groups of glittering lords and ladies, and other + groups of dazzling lesser folk, talking earnestly together in whispers, + and every face had in it dismay. Presently a splendid official came + marching by these groups, making solemn proclamation— + </p> + <p> + “IN THE NAME OF THE KING! + </p> + <p> + Let none list to this false and foolish matter, upon pain of death, nor + discuss the same, nor carry it abroad. In the name of the King!” + </p> + <p> + The whisperings ceased as suddenly as if the whisperers had been stricken + dumb. + </p> + <p> + Soon there was a general buzz along the corridors, of “The prince! + See, the prince comes!” + </p> + <p> + Poor Tom came slowly walking past the low-bowing groups, trying to bow in + return, and meekly gazing upon his strange surroundings with bewildered + and pathetic eyes. Great nobles walked upon each side of him, making + him lean upon them, and so steady his steps. Behind him followed the + court-physicians and some servants. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link05-061" id="link05-061"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link05-061.jpg (144K)" src="images/05-061.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Presently Tom found himself in a noble apartment of the palace and heard + the door close behind him. Around him stood those who had come with + him. Before him, at a little distance, reclined a very large and very fat + man, with a wide, pulpy face, and a stern expression. His large head + was very grey; and his whiskers, which he wore only around his face, like + a frame, were grey also. His clothing was of rich stuff, but old, + and slightly frayed in places. One of his swollen legs had a pillow + under it, and was wrapped in bandages. There was silence now; and + there was no head there but was bent in reverence, except this man’s. + This stern-countenanced invalid was the dread Henry VIII. He + said—and his face grew gentle as he began to speak— + </p> + <p> + “How now, my lord Edward, my prince? Hast been minded to cozen + me, the good King thy father, who loveth thee, and kindly useth thee, with + a sorry jest?” + </p> + <p> + Poor Tom was listening, as well as his dazed faculties would let him, to + the beginning of this speech; but when the words ‘me, the good King’ + fell upon his ear, his face blanched, and he dropped as instantly upon his + knees as if a shot had brought him there. Lifting up his hands, he + exclaimed— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link05-062" id="link05-062"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link05-062.jpg (111K)" src="images/05-062.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Thou the <i>King</i>? Then am I undone indeed!” + </p> + <p> + This speech seemed to stun the King. His eyes wandered from face to + face aimlessly, then rested, bewildered, upon the boy before him. Then + he said in a tone of deep disappointment— + </p> + <p> + “Alack, I had believed the rumour disproportioned to the truth; but + I fear me ’tis not so.” He breathed a heavy sigh, and + said in a gentle voice, “Come to thy father, child: thou art + not well.” + </p> + <p> + Tom was assisted to his feet, and approached the Majesty of England, + humble and trembling. The King took the frightened face between his + hands, and gazed earnestly and lovingly into it awhile, as if seeking some + grateful sign of returning reason there, then pressed the curly head + against his breast, and patted it tenderly. Presently he said— + </p> + <p> + “Dost not know thy father, child? Break not mine old heart; + say thou know’st me. Thou <i>dost</i> know me, dost thou not?” + </p> + <p> + “Yea: thou art my dread lord the King, whom God preserve!” + </p> + <p> + “True, true—that is well—be comforted, tremble not so; + there is none here would hurt thee; there is none here but loves thee. + Thou art better now; thy ill dream passeth—is’t not so? Thou + wilt not miscall thyself again, as they say thou didst a little while + agone?” + </p> + <p> + “I pray thee of thy grace believe me, I did but speak the truth, + most dread lord; for I am the meanest among thy subjects, being a pauper + born, and ’tis by a sore mischance and accident I am here, albeit I + was therein nothing blameful. I am but young to die, and thou canst + save me with one little word. Oh speak it, sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Die? Talk not so, sweet prince—peace, peace, to thy + troubled heart—thou shalt not die!” + </p> + <p> + Tom dropped upon his knees with a glad cry— + </p> + <p> + “God requite thy mercy, O my King, and save thee long to bless thy + land!” Then springing up, he turned a joyful face toward the two + lords in waiting, and exclaimed, “Thou heard’st it! I am + not to die: the King hath said it!” There was no + movement, save that all bowed with grave respect; but no one spoke. He + hesitated, a little confused, then turned timidly toward the King, saying, + “I may go now?” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link05-064" id="link05-064"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link05-064.jpg (126K)" src="images/05-064.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Go? Surely, if thou desirest. But why not tarry yet a + little? Whither would’st go?” + </p> + <p> + Tom dropped his eyes, and answered humbly— + </p> + <p> + “Peradventure I mistook; but I did think me free, and so was I moved + to seek again the kennel where I was born and bred to misery, yet which + harboureth my mother and my sisters, and so is home to me; whereas these + pomps and splendours whereunto I am not used—oh, please you, sir, to + let me go!” + </p> + <p> + The King was silent and thoughtful a while, and his face betrayed a + growing distress and uneasiness. Presently he said, with something + of hope in his voice— + </p> + <p> + “Perchance he is but mad upon this one strain, and hath his wits + unmarred as toucheth other matter. God send it may be so! We + will make trial.” + </p> + <p> + Then he asked Tom a question in Latin, and Tom answered him lamely in the + same tongue. The lords and doctors manifested their gratification + also. The King said— + </p> + <p> + “’Twas not according to his schooling and ability, but showeth + that his mind is but diseased, not stricken fatally. How say you, + sir?” + </p> + <p> + The physician addressed bowed low, and replied— + </p> + <p> + “It jumpeth with my own conviction, sire, that thou hast divined + aright.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link05-065" id="link05-065"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link05-065.jpg (123K)" src="images/05-065.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The King looked pleased with this encouragement, coming as it did from so + excellent authority, and continued with good heart— + </p> + <p> + “Now mark ye all: we will try him further.” + </p> + <p> + He put a question to Tom in French. Tom stood silent a moment, + embarrassed by having so many eyes centred upon him, then said diffidently— + </p> + <p> + “I have no knowledge of this tongue, so please your majesty.” + </p> + <p> + The King fell back upon his couch. The attendants flew to his + assistance; but he put them aside, and said— + </p> + <p> + “Trouble me not—it is nothing but a scurvy faintness. Raise + me! There, ’tis sufficient. Come hither, child; there, rest + thy poor troubled head upon thy father’s heart, and be at peace. + Thou’lt soon be well: ’tis but a passing fantasy. + Fear thou not; thou’lt soon be well.” Then he + turned toward the company: his gentle manner changed, and baleful + lightnings began to play from his eyes. He said— + </p> + <p> + “List ye all! This my son is mad; but it is not permanent. + Over-study hath done this, and somewhat too much of confinement. + Away with his books and teachers! see ye to it. Pleasure him + with sports, beguile him in wholesome ways, so that his health come again.” + He raised himself higher still, and went on with energy, “He + is mad; but he is my son, and England’s heir; and, mad or sane, + still shall he reign! And hear ye further, and proclaim it: whoso + speaketh of this his distemper worketh against the peace and order of + these realms, and shall to the gallows! . . . Give me to drink—I + burn: this sorrow sappeth my strength. . . . There, take away the + cup. . . . Support me. There, that is well. Mad, is he? Were + he a thousand times mad, yet is he Prince of Wales, and I the King will + confirm it. This very morrow shall he be installed in his princely + dignity in due and ancient form. Take instant order for it, my lord + Hertford.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link05-067" id="link05-067"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link05-067.jpg (162K)" src="images/05-067.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + One of the nobles knelt at the royal couch, and said— + </p> + <p> + “The King’s majesty knoweth that the Hereditary Great Marshal + of England lieth attainted in the Tower. It were not meet that one + attainted—” + </p> + <p> + “Peace! Insult not mine ears with his hated name. Is + this man to live for ever? Am I to be baulked of my will? Is + the prince to tarry uninstalled, because, forsooth, the realm lacketh an + Earl Marshal free of treasonable taint to invest him with his honours? No, + by the splendour of God! Warn my Parliament to bring me Norfolk’s + doom before the sun rise again, else shall they answer for it grievously!” + {1} + </p> + <p> + Lord Hertford said— + </p> + <p> + “The King’s will is law;” and, rising, returned to his + former place. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link05-068" id="link05-068"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link05-068.jpg (114K)" src="images/05-068.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Gradually the wrath faded out of the old King’s face, and he said— + </p> + <p> + “Kiss me, my prince. There . . . what fearest thou? Am I + not thy loving father?” + </p> + <p> + “Thou art good to me that am unworthy, O mighty and gracious lord: + that in truth I know. But—but—it grieveth me to think of + him that is to die, and—” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, ’tis like thee, ’tis like thee! I know thy + heart is still the same, even though thy mind hath suffered hurt, for thou + wert ever of a gentle spirit. But this duke standeth between thee + and thine honours: I will have another in his stead that shall bring + no taint to his great office. Comfort thee, my prince: trouble not + thy poor head with this matter.” + </p> + <p> + “But is it not I that speed him hence, my liege? How long + might he not live, but for me?” + </p> + <p> + “Take no thought of him, my prince: he is not worthy. Kiss + me once again, and go to thy trifles and amusements; for my malady + distresseth me. I am aweary, and would rest. Go with thine + uncle Hertford and thy people, and come again when my body is refreshed.” + </p> + <p> + Tom, heavy-hearted, was conducted from the presence, for this last + sentence was a death-blow to the hope he had cherished that now he would + be set free. Once more he heard the buzz of low voices exclaiming, + “The prince, the prince comes!” + </p> + <p> + His spirits sank lower and lower as he moved between the glittering files + of bowing courtiers; for he recognised that he was indeed a captive now, + and might remain for ever shut up in this gilded cage, a forlorn and + friendless prince, except God in his mercy take pity on him and set him + free. + </p> + <p> + And, turn where he would, he seemed to see floating in the air the severed + head and the remembered face of the great Duke of Norfolk, the eyes fixed + on him reproachfully. + </p> + <p> + His old dreams had been so pleasant; but this reality was so dreary! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c6" id="c6"></a> <a + name="link06-071" id="link06-071"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link06-071.jpg (65K)" src="images/06-071.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link06-073" id="link06-073"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link06-073.jpg (136K)" src="images/06-073.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter VI. Tom receives instructions. + </p> + <p> + Tom was conducted to the principal apartment of a noble suite, and made to + sit down—a thing which he was loth to do, since there were elderly + men and men of high degree about him. He begged them to be seated + also, but they only bowed their thanks or murmured them, and remained + standing. He would have insisted, but his ‘uncle’ the Earl of + Hertford whispered in his ear— + </p> + <p> + “Prithee, insist not, my lord; it is not meet that they sit in thy + presence.” + </p> + <p> + The Lord St. John was announced, and after making obeisance to Tom, he + said— + </p> + <p> + “I come upon the King’s errand, concerning a matter which + requireth privacy. Will it please your royal highness to dismiss all + that attend you here, save my lord the Earl of Hertford?” + </p> + <p> + Observing that Tom did not seem to know how to proceed, Hertford whispered + him to make a sign with his hand, and not trouble himself to speak unless + he chose. When the waiting gentlemen had retired, Lord St. John said— + </p> + <p> + “His majesty commandeth, that for due and weighty reasons of state, + the prince’s grace shall hide his infirmity in all ways that be + within his power, till it be passed and he be as he was before. To + wit, that he shall deny to none that he is the true prince, and heir to + England’s greatness; that he shall uphold his princely dignity, and + shall receive, without word or sign of protest, that reverence and + observance which unto it do appertain of right and ancient usage; that he + shall cease to speak to any of that lowly birth and life his malady hath + conjured out of the unwholesome imaginings of o’er-wrought fancy; + that he shall strive with diligence to bring unto his memory again those + faces which he was wont to know—and where he faileth he shall hold + his peace, neither betraying by semblance of surprise or other sign that + he hath forgot; that upon occasions of state, whensoever any matter shall + perplex him as to the thing he should do or the utterance he should make, + he shall show nought of unrest to the curious that look on, but take + advice in that matter of the Lord Hertford, or my humble self, which are + commanded of the King to be upon this service and close at call, till this + commandment be dissolved. Thus saith the King’s majesty, who sendeth + greeting to your royal highness, and prayeth that God will of His mercy + quickly heal you and have you now and ever in His holy keeping.” + </p> + <p> + The Lord St. John made reverence and stood aside. Tom replied + resignedly— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link06-075" id="link06-075"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link06-075.jpg (97K)" src="images/06-075.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “The King hath said it. None may palter with the King’s + command, or fit it to his ease, where it doth chafe, with deft evasions. + The King shall be obeyed.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Hertford said— + </p> + <p> + “Touching the King’s majesty’s ordainment concerning + books and such like serious matters, it may peradventure please your + highness to ease your time with lightsome entertainment, lest you go + wearied to the banquet and suffer harm thereby.” + </p> + <p> + Tom’s face showed inquiring surprise; and a blush followed when he + saw Lord St. John’s eyes bent sorrowfully upon him. His + lordship said— + </p> + <p> + “Thy memory still wrongeth thee, and thou hast shown surprise—but + suffer it not to trouble thee, for ’tis a matter that will not bide, + but depart with thy mending malady. My Lord of Hertford speaketh of + the city’s banquet which the King’s majesty did promise, some + two months flown, your highness should attend. Thou recallest it + now?” + </p> + <p> + “It grieves me to confess it had indeed escaped me,” said Tom, + in a hesitating voice; and blushed again. + </p> + <p> + At this moment the Lady Elizabeth and the Lady Jane Grey were announced. + The two lords exchanged significant glances, and Hertford stepped quickly + toward the door. As the young girls passed him, he said in a low + voice— + </p> + <p> + “I pray ye, ladies, seem not to observe his humours, nor show + surprise when his memory doth lapse—it will grieve you to note how + it doth stick at every trifle.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link06-077" id="link06-077"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link06-077.jpg (101K)" src="images/06-077.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Meantime Lord St. John was saying in Tom’s ear— + </p> + <p> + “Please you, sir, keep diligently in mind his majesty’s + desire. Remember all thou canst—<i>seem</i> to remember all else. + Let them not perceive that thou art much changed from thy wont, for + thou knowest how tenderly thy old play-fellows bear thee in their hearts + and how ’twould grieve them. Art willing, sir, that I remain?—and + thine uncle?” + </p> + <p> + Tom signified assent with a gesture and a murmured word, for he was + already learning, and in his simple heart was resolved to acquit himself + as best he might, according to the King’s command. + </p> + <p> + In spite of every precaution, the conversation among the young people + became a little embarrassing at times. More than once, in truth, Tom + was near to breaking down and confessing himself unequal to his tremendous + part; but the tact of the Princess Elizabeth saved him, or a word from one + or the other of the vigilant lords, thrown in apparently by chance, had + the same happy effect. Once the little Lady Jane turned to Tom and + dismayed him with this question,— + </p> + <p> + “Hast paid thy duty to the Queen’s majesty to-day, my lord?” + </p> + <p> + Tom hesitated, looked distressed, and was about to stammer out something + at hazard, when Lord St. John took the word and answered for him with the + easy grace of a courtier accustomed to encounter delicate difficulties and + to be ready for them— + </p> + <p> + “He hath indeed, madam, and she did greatly hearten him, as touching + his majesty’s condition; is it not so, your highness?” + </p> + <p> + Tom mumbled something that stood for assent, but felt that he was getting + upon dangerous ground. Somewhat later it was mentioned that Tom was + to study no more at present, whereupon her little ladyship exclaimed— + </p> + <p> + “’Tis a pity, ’tis a pity! Thou wert proceeding + bravely. But bide thy time in patience: it will not be for + long. Thou’lt yet be graced with learning like thy father, and + make thy tongue master of as many languages as his, good my prince.” + </p> + <p> + “My father!” cried Tom, off his guard for the moment. "I + trow he cannot speak his own so that any but the swine that kennel in the + styes may tell his meaning; and as for learning of any sort soever—” + </p> + <p> + He looked up and encountered a solemn warning in my Lord St. John’s + eyes. + </p> + <p> + He stopped, blushed, then continued low and sadly: “Ah, my malady + persecuteth me again, and my mind wandereth. I meant the King’s + grace no irreverence.” + </p> + <p> + “We know it, sir,” said the Princess Elizabeth, taking her + ‘brother’s’ hand between her two palms, respectfully but + caressingly; “trouble not thyself as to that. The fault is + none of thine, but thy distemper’s.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou’rt a gentle comforter, sweet lady,” said Tom, + gratefully, “and my heart moveth me to thank thee for’t, an’ + I may be so bold.” + </p> + <p> + Once the giddy little Lady Jane fired a simple Greek phrase at Tom. The + Princess Elizabeth’s quick eye saw by the serene blankness of the + target’s front that the shaft was overshot; so she tranquilly + delivered a return volley of sounding Greek on Tom’s behalf, and + then straightway changed the talk to other matters. + </p> + <p> + Time wore on pleasantly, and likewise smoothly, on the whole. Snags and + sandbars grew less and less frequent, and Tom grew more and more at his + ease, seeing that all were so lovingly bent upon helping him and + overlooking his mistakes. When it came out that the little ladies + were to accompany him to the Lord Mayor’s banquet in the evening, + his heart gave a bound of relief and delight, for he felt that he should + not be friendless, now, among that multitude of strangers; whereas, an + hour earlier, the idea of their going with him would have been an + insupportable terror to him. + </p> + <p> + Tom’s guardian angels, the two lords, had had less comfort in the + interview than the other parties to it. They felt much as if they + were piloting a great ship through a dangerous channel; they were on the + alert constantly, and found their office no child’s play. Wherefore, + at last, when the ladies’ visit was drawing to a close and the Lord + Guilford Dudley was announced, they not only felt that their charge had + been sufficiently taxed for the present, but also that they themselves + were not in the best condition to take their ship back and make their + anxious voyage all over again. So they respectfully advised Tom to + excuse himself, which he was very glad to do, although a slight shade of + disappointment might have been observed upon my Lady Jane’s face + when she heard the splendid stripling denied admittance. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link06-079" id="link06-079"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link06-079.jpg (89K)" src="images/06-079.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + There was a pause now, a sort of waiting silence which Tom could not + understand. He glanced at Lord Hertford, who gave him a sign—but + he failed to understand that also. The ready Elizabeth came to the + rescue with her usual easy grace. She made reverence and said— + </p> + <p> + “Have we leave of the prince’s grace my brother to go?” + </p> + <p> + Tom said— + </p> + <p> + “Indeed your ladyships can have whatsoever of me they will, for the + asking; yet would I rather give them any other thing that in my poor power + lieth, than leave to take the light and blessing of their presence hence. + Give ye good den, and God be with ye!” Then he smiled inwardly + at the thought, “’Tis not for nought I have dwelt but among + princes in my reading, and taught my tongue some slight trick of their + broidered and gracious speech withal!” + </p> + <p> + When the illustrious maidens were gone, Tom turned wearily to his keepers + and said— + </p> + <p> + “May it please your lordships to grant me leave to go into some + corner and rest me?” + </p> + <p> + Lord Hertford said— + </p> + <p> + “So please your highness, it is for you to command, it is for us to + obey. That thou should’st rest is indeed a needful thing, since thou + must journey to the city presently.” + </p> + <p> + He touched a bell, and a page appeared, who was ordered to desire the + presence of Sir William Herbert. This gentleman came straightway, + and conducted Tom to an inner apartment. Tom’s first movement + there was to reach for a cup of water; but a silk-and-velvet servitor + seized it, dropped upon one knee, and offered it to him on a golden + salver. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link06-080" id="link06-080"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link06-080.jpg (154K)" src="images/06-080.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Next the tired captive sat down and was going to take off his buskins, + timidly asking leave with his eye, but another silk-and-velvet + discomforter went down upon his knees and took the office from him. He + made two or three further efforts to help himself, but being promptly + forestalled each time, he finally gave up, with a sigh of resignation and + a murmured “Beshrew me, but I marvel they do not require to breathe + for me also!” Slippered, and wrapped in a sumptuous robe, he + laid himself down at last to rest, but not to sleep, for his head was too + full of thoughts and the room too full of people. He could not + dismiss the former, so they stayed; he did not know enough to dismiss the + latter, so they stayed also, to his vast regret—and theirs. + </p> + <p> + Tom’s departure had left his two noble guardians alone. They + mused a while, with much head-shaking and walking the floor, then Lord St. + John said— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link06-082" id="link06-082"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link06-082.jpg (83K)" src="images/06-082.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Plainly, what dost thou think?” + </p> + <p> + “Plainly, then, this. The King is near his end; my nephew is + mad—mad will mount the throne, and mad remain. God protect + England, since she will need it!” + </p> + <p> + “Verily it promiseth so, indeed. But . . . have you no + misgivings as to . . . as to . . .” + </p> + <p> + The speaker hesitated, and finally stopped. He evidently felt that + he was upon delicate ground. Lord Hertford stopped before him, + looked into his face with a clear, frank eye, and said— + </p> + <p> + “Speak on—there is none to hear but me. Misgivings as to + what?” + </p> + <p> + “I am full loth to word the thing that is in my mind, and thou so + near to him in blood, my lord. But craving pardon if I do offend, + seemeth it not strange that madness could so change his port and manner?—not + but that his port and speech are princely still, but that they <i>differ</i>, + in one unweighty trifle or another, from what his custom was aforetime. + Seemeth it not strange that madness should filch from his memory his + father’s very lineaments; the customs and observances that are his + due from such as be about him; and, leaving him his Latin, strip him of + his Greek and French? My lord, be not offended, but ease my mind of + its disquiet and receive my grateful thanks. It haunteth me, his + saying he was not the prince, and so—” + </p> + <p> + “Peace, my lord, thou utterest treason! Hast forgot the King’s + command? Remember I am party to thy crime if I but listen.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link06-083" id="link06-083"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link06-083.jpg (108K)" src="images/06-083.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + St. John paled, and hastened to say— + </p> + <p> + “I was in fault, I do confess it. Betray me not, grant me this + grace out of thy courtesy, and I will neither think nor speak of this + thing more. Deal not hardly with me, sir, else am I ruined.” + </p> + <p> + “I am content, my lord. So thou offend not again, here or in + the ears of others, it shall be as though thou hadst not spoken. But + thou need’st not have misgivings. He is my sister’s son; + are not his voice, his face, his form, familiar to me from his cradle? + Madness can do all the odd conflicting things thou seest in him, and more. + Dost not recall how that the old Baron Marley, being mad, forgot the + favour of his own countenance that he had known for sixty years, and held + it was another’s; nay, even claimed he was the son of Mary + Magdalene, and that his head was made of Spanish glass; and, sooth to say, + he suffered none to touch it, lest by mischance some heedless hand might + shiver it? Give thy misgivings easement, good my lord. This is + the very prince—I know him well—and soon will be thy king; it + may advantage thee to bear this in mind, and more dwell upon it than the + other.” + </p> + <p> + After some further talk, in which the Lord St. John covered up his mistake + as well as he could by repeated protests that his faith was thoroughly + grounded now, and could not be assailed by doubts again, the Lord Hertford + relieved his fellow-keeper, and sat down to keep watch and ward alone. + He was soon deep in meditation, and evidently the longer he thought, + the more he was bothered. By-and-by he began to pace the floor and + mutter. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link06-084" id="link06-084"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link06-084.jpg (61K)" src="images/06-084.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Tush, he <i>must</i> be the prince! Will any be in all the + land maintain there can be two, not of one blood and birth, so + marvellously twinned? And even were it so, ’twere yet a + stranger miracle that chance should cast the one into the other’s + place. Nay, ’tis folly, folly, folly!” + </p> + <p> + Presently he said— + </p> + <p> + “Now were he impostor and called himself prince, look you <i>that</i> + would be natural; that would be reasonable. But lived ever an + impostor yet, who, being called prince by the king, prince by the court, + prince by all, <i>denied</i> his dignity and pleaded against his + exaltation? <i>No</i>! By the soul of St. Swithin, no! This + is the true prince, gone mad!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c7" id="c7"></a> <a + name="link07-087" id="link07-087"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link07-087.jpg (90K)" src="images/07-087.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link07-089" id="link07-089"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link07-089.jpg (133K)" src="images/07-089.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter VII. Tom’s first royal dinner. + </p> + <p> + Somewhat after one in the afternoon, Tom resignedly underwent the ordeal + of being dressed for dinner. He found himself as finely clothed as + before, but everything different, everything changed, from his ruff to his + stockings. He was presently conducted with much state to a spacious + and ornate apartment, where a table was already set for one. Its + furniture was all of massy gold, and beautified with designs which + well-nigh made it priceless, since they were the work of Benvenuto. The + room was half-filled with noble servitors. A chaplain said grace, + and Tom was about to fall to, for hunger had long been constitutional with + him, but was interrupted by my lord the Earl of Berkeley, who fastened a + napkin about his neck; for the great post of Diaperers to the Prince of + Wales was hereditary in this nobleman’s family. Tom’s + cupbearer was present, and forestalled all his attempts to help himself to + wine. The Taster to his highness the Prince of Wales was there also, + prepared to taste any suspicious dish upon requirement, and run the risk + of being poisoned. He was only an ornamental appendage at this time, + and was seldom called upon to exercise his function; but there had been + times, not many generations past, when the office of taster had its + perils, and was not a grandeur to be desired. Why they did not use a + dog or a plumber seems strange; but all the ways of royalty are strange. + My Lord d’Arcy, First Groom of the Chamber, was there, to do + goodness knows what; but there he was—let that suffice. The + Lord Chief Butler was there, and stood behind Tom’s chair, + overseeing the solemnities, under command of the Lord Great Steward and + the Lord Head Cook, who stood near. Tom had three hundred and + eighty-four servants beside these; but they were not all in that room, of + course, nor the quarter of them; neither was Tom aware yet that they + existed. + </p> + <p> + All those that were present had been well drilled within the hour to + remember that the prince was temporarily out of his head, and to be + careful to show no surprise at his vagaries. These ‘vagaries’ + were soon on exhibition before them; but they only moved their compassion + and their sorrow, not their mirth. It was a heavy affliction to them + to see the beloved prince so stricken. + </p> + <p> + Poor Tom ate with his fingers mainly; but no one smiled at it, or even + seemed to observe it. He inspected his napkin curiously, and with + deep interest, for it was of a very dainty and beautiful fabric, then said + with simplicity— + </p> + <p> + “Prithee, take it away, lest in mine unheedfulness it be soiled.” + </p> + <p> + The Hereditary Diaperer took it away with reverent manner, and without + word or protest of any sort. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link07-091" id="link07-091"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link07-091.jpg (156K)" src="images/07-091.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Tom examined the turnips and the lettuce with interest, and asked what + they were, and if they were to be eaten; for it was only recently that men + had begun to raise these things in England in place of importing them as + luxuries from Holland. {1} His question was answered with grave + respect, and no surprise manifested. When he had finished his + dessert, he filled his pockets with nuts; but nobody appeared to be aware + of it, or disturbed by it. But the next moment he was himself + disturbed by it, and showed discomposure; for this was the only service he + had been permitted to do with his own hands during the meal, and he did + not doubt that he had done a most improper and unprincely thing. At + that moment the muscles of his nose began to twitch, and the end of that + organ to lift and wrinkle. This continued, and Tom began to evince a + growing distress. He looked appealingly, first at one and then + another of the lords about him, and tears came into his eyes. They + sprang forward with dismay in their faces, and begged to know his trouble. + Tom said with genuine anguish— + </p> + <p> + “I crave your indulgence: my nose itcheth cruelly. What + is the custom and usage in this emergence? Prithee, speed, for + ’tis but a little time that I can bear it.” + </p> + <p> + None smiled; but all were sore perplexed, and looked one to the other in + deep tribulation for counsel. But behold, here was a dead wall, and + nothing in English history to tell how to get over it. The Master of + Ceremonies was not present: there was no one who felt safe to + venture upon this uncharted sea, or risk the attempt to solve this solemn + problem. Alas! there was no Hereditary Scratcher. Meantime the + tears had overflowed their banks, and begun to trickle down Tom’s + cheeks. His twitching nose was pleading more urgently than ever for + relief. At last nature broke down the barriers of etiquette: Tom + lifted up an inward prayer for pardon if he was doing wrong, and brought + relief to the burdened hearts of his court by scratching his nose himself. + </p> + <p> + His meal being ended, a lord came and held before him a broad, shallow, + golden dish with fragrant rosewater in it, to cleanse his mouth and + fingers with; and my lord the Hereditary Diaperer stood by with a napkin + for his use. Tom gazed at the dish a puzzled moment or two, then + raised it to his lips, and gravely took a draught. Then he returned + it to the waiting lord, and said— + </p> + <p> + “Nay, it likes me not, my lord: it hath a pretty flavour, but + it wanteth strength.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link07-092" id="link07-092"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link07-092.jpg (87K)" src="images/07-092.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + This new eccentricity of the prince’s ruined mind made all the + hearts about him ache; but the sad sight moved none to merriment. + </p> + <p> + Tom’s next unconscious blunder was to get up and leave the table + just when the chaplain had taken his stand behind his chair, and with + uplifted hands, and closed, uplifted eyes, was in the act of beginning the + blessing. Still nobody seemed to perceive that the prince had done a + thing unusual. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link07-093" id="link07-093"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link07-093.jpg (179K)" src="images/07-093.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + By his own request our small friend was now conducted to his private + cabinet, and left there alone to his own devices. Hanging upon hooks + in the oaken wainscoting were the several pieces of a suit of shining + steel armour, covered all over with beautiful designs exquisitely inlaid + in gold. This martial panoply belonged to the true prince—a + recent present from Madam Parr the Queen. Tom put on the greaves, the + gauntlets, the plumed helmet, and such other pieces as he could don + without assistance, and for a while was minded to call for help and + complete the matter, but bethought him of the nuts he had brought away + from dinner, and the joy it would be to eat them with no crowd to eye him, + and no Grand Hereditaries to pester him with undesired services; so he + restored the pretty things to their several places, and soon was cracking + nuts, and feeling almost naturally happy for the first time since God for + his sins had made him a prince. When the nuts were all gone, he + stumbled upon some inviting books in a closet, among them one about the + etiquette of the English court. This was a prize. He lay down upon a + sumptuous divan, and proceeded to instruct himself with honest zeal. + Let us leave him there for the present. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c8" id="c8"></a> <a + name="link08-095" id="link08-095"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link08-095.jpg (51K)" src="images/08-095.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter VIII. The Question of the Seal. + </p> + <p> + About five o’clock Henry VIII. awoke out of an unrefreshing nap, and + muttered to himself, “Troublous dreams, troublous dreams! Mine end + is now at hand: so say these warnings, and my failing pulses do + confirm it.” Presently a wicked light flamed up in his eye, and he + muttered, “Yet will not I die till <i>He</i> go before.” + </p> + <p> + His attendants perceiving that he was awake, one of them asked his + pleasure concerning the Lord Chancellor, who was waiting without. + </p> + <p> + “Admit him, admit him!” exclaimed the King eagerly. + </p> + <p> + The Lord Chancellor entered, and knelt by the King’s couch, saying— + </p> + <p> + “I have given order, and, according to the King’s command, the + peers of the realm, in their robes, do now stand at the bar of the House, + where, having confirmed the Duke of Norfolk’s doom, they humbly wait + his majesty’s further pleasure in the matter.” + </p> + <p> + The King’s face lit up with a fierce joy. Said he— + </p> + <p> + “Lift me up! In mine own person will I go before my + Parliament, and with mine own hand will I seal the warrant that rids me of—” + </p> + <p> + His voice failed; an ashen pallor swept the flush from his cheeks; and the + attendants eased him back upon his pillows, and hurriedly assisted him + with restoratives. Presently he said sorrowfully— + </p> + <p> + “Alack, how have I longed for this sweet hour! and lo, too late it + cometh, and I am robbed of this so coveted chance. But speed ye, + speed ye! let others do this happy office sith ’tis denied to me. I + put my Great Seal in commission: choose thou the lords that shall + compose it, and get ye to your work. Speed ye, man! Before the + sun shall rise and set again, bring me his head that I may see it.” + </p> + <p> + “According to the King’s command, so shall it be. Will’t + please your majesty to order that the Seal be now restored to me, so that + I may forth upon the business?” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link08-098" id="link08-098"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link08-098.jpg (99K)" src="images/08-098.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “The Seal? Who keepeth the Seal but thou?” + </p> + <p> + “Please your majesty, you did take it from me two days since, saying + it should no more do its office till your own royal hand should use it + upon the Duke of Norfolk’s warrant.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, so in sooth I did: I do remember. . . . What did I with + it? . . . I am very feeble. . . . So oft these days doth my memory play + the traitor with me. . . . ’Tis strange, strange—” + </p> + <p> + The King dropped into inarticulate mumblings, shaking his grey head weakly + from time to time, and gropingly trying to recollect what he had done with + the Seal. At last my Lord Hertford ventured to kneel and offer + information— + </p> + <p> + “Sire, if that I may be so bold, here be several that do remember + with me how that you gave the Great Seal into the hands of his highness + the Prince of Wales to keep against the day that—” + </p> + <p> + “True, most true!” interrupted the King. "Fetch it! + Go: time flieth!” + </p> + <p> + Lord Hertford flew to Tom, but returned to the King before very long, + troubled and empty-handed. He delivered himself to this effect— + </p> + <p> + “It grieveth me, my lord the King, to bear so heavy and unwelcome + tidings; but it is the will of God that the prince’s affliction + abideth still, and he cannot recall to mind that he received the Seal. + So came I quickly to report, thinking it were waste of precious + time, and little worth withal, that any should attempt to search the long + array of chambers and saloons that belong unto his royal high—” + </p> + <p> + A groan from the King interrupted the lord at this point. After a + little while his majesty said, with a deep sadness in his tone— + </p> + <p> + “Trouble him no more, poor child. The hand of God lieth heavy + upon him, and my heart goeth out in loving compassion for him, and sorrow + that I may not bear his burden on mine old trouble-weighted shoulders, and + so bring him peace.” + </p> + <p> + He closed his eyes, fell to mumbling, and presently was silent. After a + time he opened his eyes again, and gazed vacantly around until his glance + rested upon the kneeling Lord Chancellor. Instantly his face flushed with + wrath— + </p> + <p> + “What, thou here yet! By the glory of God, an’ thou + gettest not about that traitor’s business, thy mitre shall have + holiday the morrow for lack of a head to grace withal!” + </p> + <p> + The trembling Chancellor answered— + </p> + <p> + “Good your Majesty, I cry you mercy! I but waited for the + Seal.” + </p> + <p> + “Man, hast lost thy wits? The small Seal which aforetime I was + wont to take with me abroad lieth in my treasury. And, since the + Great Seal hath flown away, shall not it suffice? Hast lost thy + wits? Begone! And hark ye—come no more till thou do + bring his head.” + </p> + <p> + The poor Chancellor was not long in removing himself from this dangerous + vicinity; nor did the commission waste time in giving the royal assent to + the work of the slavish Parliament, and appointing the morrow for the + beheading of the premier peer of England, the luckless Duke of Norfolk. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c9" id="c9"></a> <a + name="link09-101" id="link09-101"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link09-101.jpg (60K)" src="images/09-101.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter IX. The river pageant. + </p> + <p> + At nine in the evening the whole vast river-front of the palace was + blazing with light. The river itself, as far as the eye could reach + citywards, was so thickly covered with watermen’s boats and with + pleasure-barges, all fringed with coloured lanterns, and gently agitated + by the waves, that it resembled a glowing and limitless garden of flowers + stirred to soft motion by summer winds. The grand terrace of stone + steps leading down to the water, spacious enough to mass the army of a + German principality upon, was a picture to see, with its ranks of royal + halberdiers in polished armour, and its troops of brilliantly costumed + servitors flitting up and down, and to and fro, in the hurry of + preparation. + </p> + <p> + Presently a command was given, and immediately all living creatures + vanished from the steps. Now the air was heavy with the hush of + suspense and expectancy. As far as one’s vision could carry, + he might see the myriads of people in the boats rise up, and shade their + eyes from the glare of lanterns and torches, and gaze toward the palace. + </p> + <p> + A file of forty or fifty state barges drew up to the steps. They + were richly gilt, and their lofty prows and sterns were elaborately + carved. Some of them were decorated with banners and streamers; some with + cloth-of-gold and arras embroidered with coats-of-arms; others with silken + flags that had numberless little silver bells fastened to them, which + shook out tiny showers of joyous music whenever the breezes fluttered + them; others of yet higher pretensions, since they belonged to nobles in + the prince’s immediate service, had their sides picturesquely fenced + with shields gorgeously emblazoned with armorial bearings. Each + state barge was towed by a tender. Besides the rowers, these tenders + carried each a number of men-at-arms in glossy helmet and breastplate, and + a company of musicians. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link09-104" id="link09-104"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link09-104.jpg (178K)" src="images/09-104.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The advance-guard of the expected procession now appeared in the great + gateway, a troop of halberdiers. ’They were dressed in striped + hose of black and tawny, velvet caps graced at the sides with silver + roses, and doublets of murrey and blue cloth, embroidered on the front and + back with the three feathers, the prince’s blazon, woven in gold. + Their halberd staves were covered with crimson velvet, fastened with + gilt nails, and ornamented with gold tassels. Filing off on the + right and left, they formed two long lines, extending from the gateway of + the palace to the water’s edge. A thick rayed cloth or carpet + was then unfolded, and laid down between them by attendants in the + gold-and-crimson liveries of the prince. This done, a flourish of + trumpets resounded from within. A lively prelude arose from the + musicians on the water; and two ushers with white wands marched with a + slow and stately pace from the portal. They were followed by an + officer bearing the civic mace, after whom came another carrying the city’s + sword; then several sergeants of the city guard, in their full + accoutrements, and with badges on their sleeves; then the Garter + King-at-arms, in his tabard; then several Knights of the Bath, each with a + white lace on his sleeve; then their esquires; then the judges, in their + robes of scarlet and coifs; then the Lord High Chancellor of England, in a + robe of scarlet, open before, and purfled with minever; then a deputation + of aldermen, in their scarlet cloaks; and then the heads of the different + civic companies, in their robes of state. Now came twelve French + gentlemen, in splendid habiliments, consisting of pourpoints of white + damask barred with gold, short mantles of crimson velvet lined with violet + taffeta, and carnation coloured hauts-de-chausses, and took their way down + the steps. They were of the suite of the French ambassador, and were + followed by twelve cavaliers of the suite of the Spanish ambassador, + clothed in black velvet, unrelieved by any ornament. Following these + came several great English nobles with their attendants.’ + </p> + <p> + There was a flourish of trumpets within; and the Prince’s uncle, the + future great Duke of Somerset, emerged from the gateway, arrayed in a + ‘doublet of black cloth-of-gold, and a cloak of crimson satin + flowered with gold, and ribanded with nets of silver.’ He + turned, doffed his plumed cap, bent his body in a low reverence, and began + to step backward, bowing at each step. A prolonged trumpet-blast + followed, and a proclamation, “Way for the high and mighty the Lord + Edward, Prince of Wales!” High aloft on the palace walls a + long line of red tongues of flame leapt forth with a thunder-crash; the + massed world on the river burst into a mighty roar of welcome; and Tom + Canty, the cause and hero of it all, stepped into view and slightly bowed + his princely head. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link09-106" id="link09-106"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link09-106.jpg (46K)" src="images/09-106.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + He was ‘magnificently habited in a doublet of white satin, with a + front-piece of purple cloth-of-tissue, powdered with diamonds, and edged + with ermine. Over this he wore a mantle of white cloth-of-gold, + pounced with the triple-feathered crest, lined with blue satin, set with + pearls and precious stones, and fastened with a clasp of brilliants. + About his neck hung the order of the Garter, and several princely + foreign orders;’ and wherever light fell upon him jewels responded + with a blinding flash. O Tom Canty, born in a hovel, bred in the + gutters of London, familiar with rags and dirt and misery, what a + spectacle is this! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c10" id="c10"></a> <a + name="link10-107" id="link10-107"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link10-107.jpg (46K)" src="images/10-107.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter X. The Prince in the toils. + </p> + <p> + We left John Canty dragging the rightful prince into Offal Court, with a + noisy and delighted mob at his heels. There was but one person in it + who offered a pleading word for the captive, and he was not heeded; he was + hardly even heard, so great was the turmoil. The Prince continued to + struggle for freedom, and to rage against the treatment he was suffering, + until John Canty lost what little patience was left in him, and raised his + oaken cudgel in a sudden fury over the Prince’s head. The + single pleader for the lad sprang to stop the man’s arm, and the + blow descended upon his own wrist. Canty roared out— + </p> + <p> + “Thou’lt meddle, wilt thou? Then have thy reward.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link10-110" id="link10-110"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link10-110.jpg (100K)" src="images/10-110.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + His cudgel crashed down upon the meddler’s head: there was a + groan, a dim form sank to the ground among the feet of the crowd, and the + next moment it lay there in the dark alone. The mob pressed on, + their enjoyment nothing disturbed by this episode. + </p> + <p> + Presently the Prince found himself in John Canty’s abode, with the + door closed against the outsiders. By the vague light of a tallow + candle which was thrust into a bottle, he made out the main features of + the loathsome den, and also the occupants of it. Two frowsy girls + and a middle-aged woman cowered against the wall in one corner, with the + aspect of animals habituated to harsh usage, and expecting and dreading it + now. From another corner stole a withered hag with streaming grey hair and + malignant eyes. John Canty said to this one— + </p> + <p> + “Tarry! There’s fine mummeries here. Mar them not + till thou’st enjoyed them: then let thy hand be heavy as thou + wilt. Stand forth, lad. Now say thy foolery again, an thou’st + not forgot it. Name thy name. Who art thou?” + </p> + <p> + The insulted blood mounted to the little prince’s cheek once more, + and he lifted a steady and indignant gaze to the man’s face and said— + </p> + <p> + “’Tis but ill-breeding in such as thou to command me to speak. + I tell thee now, as I told thee before, I am Edward, Prince of + Wales, and none other.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link10-111" id="link10-111"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link10-111.jpg (133K)" src="images/10-111.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The stunning surprise of this reply nailed the hag’s feet to the + floor where she stood, and almost took her breath. She stared at the + Prince in stupid amazement, which so amused her ruffianly son, that he + burst into a roar of laughter. But the effect upon Tom Canty’s + mother and sisters was different. Their dread of bodily injury gave + way at once to distress of a different sort. They ran forward with + woe and dismay in their faces, exclaiming— + </p> + <p> + “Oh, poor Tom, poor lad!” + </p> + <p> + The mother fell on her knees before the Prince, put her hands upon his + shoulders, and gazed yearningly into his face through her rising tears. + Then she said— + </p> + <p> + “Oh, my poor boy! Thy foolish reading hath wrought its woeful + work at last, and ta’en thy wit away. Ah! why did’st + thou cleave to it when I so warned thee ’gainst it? Thou’st + broke thy mother’s heart.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince looked into her face, and said gently— + </p> + <p> + “Thy son is well, and hath not lost his wits, good dame. Comfort + thee: let me to the palace where he is, and straightway will the King my + father restore him to thee.” + </p> + <p> + “The King thy father! Oh, my child! unsay these words that be + freighted with death for thee, and ruin for all that be near to thee. + Shake of this gruesome dream. Call back thy poor wandering + memory. Look upon me. Am not I thy mother that bore thee, and loveth + thee?” + </p> + <p> + The Prince shook his head and reluctantly said— + </p> + <p> + “God knoweth I am loth to grieve thy heart; but truly have I never + looked upon thy face before.” + </p> + <p> + The woman sank back to a sitting posture on the floor, and, covering her + eyes with her hands, gave way to heart-broken sobs and wailings. + </p> + <p> + “Let the show go on!” shouted Canty. "What, Nan!—what, + Bet! mannerless wenches! will ye stand in the Prince’s presence? + Upon your knees, ye pauper scum, and do him reverence!” + </p> + <p> + He followed this with another horse-laugh. The girls began to plead + timidly for their brother; and Nan said— + </p> + <p> + “An thou wilt but let him to bed, father, rest and sleep will heal + his madness: prithee, do.” + </p> + <p> + “Do, father,” said Bet; “he is more worn than is his + wont. To-morrow will he be himself again, and will beg with + diligence, and come not empty home again.” + </p> + <p> + This remark sobered the father’s joviality, and brought his mind to + business. He turned angrily upon the Prince, and said— + </p> + <p> + “The morrow must we pay two pennies to him that owns this hole; two + pennies, mark ye—all this money for a half-year’s rent, else + out of this we go. Show what thou’st gathered with thy lazy + begging.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince said— + </p> + <p> + “Offend me not with thy sordid matters. I tell thee again I am + the King’s son.” + </p> + <p> + A sounding blow upon the Prince’s shoulder from Canty’s broad + palm sent him staggering into goodwife Canty’s arms, who clasped him + to her breast, and sheltered him from a pelting rain of cuffs and slaps by + interposing her own person. The frightened girls retreated to their + corner; but the grandmother stepped eagerly forward to assist her son. + The Prince sprang away from Mrs. Canty, exclaiming— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link10-113" id="link10-113"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link10-113.jpg (105K)" src="images/10-113.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Thou shalt not suffer for me, madam. Let these swine do their + will upon me alone.” + </p> + <p> + This speech infuriated the swine to such a degree that they set about + their work without waste of time. Between them they belaboured the + boy right soundly, and then gave the girls and their mother a beating for + showing sympathy for the victim. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said Canty, “to bed, all of ye. The + entertainment has tired me.” + </p> + <p> + The light was put out, and the family retired. As soon as the + snorings of the head of the house and his mother showed that they were + asleep, the young girls crept to where the Prince lay, and covered him + tenderly from the cold with straw and rags; and their mother crept to him + also, and stroked his hair, and cried over him, whispering broken words of + comfort and compassion in his ear the while. She had saved a morsel + for him to eat, also; but the boy’s pains had swept away all + appetite—at least for black and tasteless crusts. He was + touched by her brave and costly defence of him, and by her commiseration; + and he thanked her in very noble and princely words, and begged her to go + to her sleep and try to forget her sorrows. And he added that the + King his father would not let her loyal kindness and devotion go + unrewarded. This return to his ‘madness’ broke her heart + anew, and she strained him to her breast again and again, and then went + back, drowned in tears, to her bed. + </p> + <p> + As she lay thinking and mourning, the suggestion began to creep into her + mind that there was an undefinable something about this boy that was + lacking in Tom Canty, mad or sane. She could not describe it, she + could not tell just what it was, and yet her sharp mother-instinct seemed + to detect it and perceive it. What if the boy were really not her + son, after all? Oh, absurd! She almost smiled at the idea, + spite of her griefs and troubles. No matter, she found that it was + an idea that would not ‘down,’ but persisted in haunting her. + It pursued her, it harassed her, it clung to her, and refused to be + put away or ignored. At last she perceived that there was not going + to be any peace for her until she should devise a test that should prove, + clearly and without question, whether this lad was her son or not, and so + banish these wearing and worrying doubts. Ah, yes, this was plainly + the right way out of the difficulty; therefore she set her wits to work at + once to contrive that test. But it was an easier thing to propose + than to accomplish. She turned over in her mind one promising test + after another, but was obliged to relinquish them all—none of them + were absolutely sure, absolutely perfect; and an imperfect one could not + satisfy her. Evidently she was racking her head in vain—it + seemed manifest that she must give the matter up. While this + depressing thought was passing through her mind, her ear caught the + regular breathing of the boy, and she knew he had fallen asleep. And + while she listened, the measured breathing was broken by a soft, startled + cry, such as one utters in a troubled dream. This chance occurrence + furnished her instantly with a plan worth all her laboured tests combined. + She at once set herself feverishly, but noiselessly, to work to + relight her candle, muttering to herself, “Had I but seen him <i>then</i>, + I should have known! Since that day, when he was little, that the + powder burst in his face, he hath never been startled of a sudden out of + his dreams or out of his thinkings, but he hath cast his hand before his + eyes, even as he did that day; and not as others would do it, with the + palm inward, but always with the palm turned outward—I have seen it + a hundred times, and it hath never varied nor ever failed. Yes, I + shall soon know, now!” + </p> + <p> + By this time she had crept to the slumbering boy’s side, with the + candle, shaded, in her hand. She bent heedfully and warily over him, + scarcely breathing in her suppressed excitement, and suddenly flashed the + light in his face and struck the floor by his ear with her knuckles. + The sleeper’s eyes sprang wide open, and he cast a startled + stare about him—but he made no special movement with his hands. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link10-115" id="link10-115"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link10-115.jpg (138K)" src="images/10-115.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The poor woman was smitten almost helpless with surprise and grief; but + she contrived to hide her emotions, and to soothe the boy to sleep again; + then she crept apart and communed miserably with herself upon the + disastrous result of her experiment. She tried to believe that her + Tom’s madness had banished this habitual gesture of his; but she + could not do it. "No,” she said, “his <i>hands</i> are + not mad; they could not unlearn so old a habit in so brief a time. Oh, + this is a heavy day for me!” + </p> + <p> + Still, hope was as stubborn now as doubt had been before; she could not + bring herself to accept the verdict of the test; she must try the thing + again—the failure must have been only an accident; so she startled + the boy out of his sleep a second and a third time, at intervals—with + the same result which had marked the first test; then she dragged herself + to bed, and fell sorrowfully asleep, saying, “But I cannot give him + up—oh no, I cannot, I cannot—he <i>must</i> be my boy!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link10-116" id="link10-116"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link10-116.jpg (62K)" src="images/10-116.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The poor mother’s interruptions having ceased, and the Prince’s + pains having gradually lost their power to disturb him, utter weariness at + last sealed his eyes in a profound and restful sleep. Hour after hour + slipped away, and still he slept like the dead. Thus four or five hours + passed. Then his stupor began to lighten. Presently, while half asleep and + half awake, he murmured— + </p> + <p> + “Sir William!” + </p> + <p> + After a moment— + </p> + <p> + “Ho, Sir William Herbert! Hie thee hither, and list to the + strangest dream that ever . . . Sir William! dost hear? Man, I did + think me changed to a pauper, and . . . Ho there! Guards! Sir + William! What! is there no groom of the chamber in waiting? Alack! + it shall go hard with—” + </p> + <p> + “What aileth thee?” asked a whisper near him. "Who art + thou calling?” + </p> + <p> + “Sir William Herbert. Who art thou?” + </p> + <p> + “I? Who should I be, but thy sister Nan? Oh, Tom, I had + forgot! Thou’rt mad yet—poor lad, thou’rt mad yet: + would I had never woke to know it again! But prithee master + thy tongue, lest we be all beaten till we die!” + </p> + <p> + The startled Prince sprang partly up, but a sharp reminder from his + stiffened bruises brought him to himself, and he sank back among his foul + straw with a moan and the ejaculation— + </p> + <p> + “Alas! it was no dream, then!” + </p> + <p> + In a moment all the heavy sorrow and misery which sleep had banished were + upon him again, and he realised that he was no longer a petted prince in a + palace, with the adoring eyes of a nation upon him, but a pauper, an + outcast, clothed in rags, prisoner in a den fit only for beasts, and + consorting with beggars and thieves. + </p> + <p> + In the midst of his grief he began to be conscious of hilarious noises and + shoutings, apparently but a block or two away. The next moment there + were several sharp raps at the door; John Canty ceased from snoring and + said— + </p> + <p> + “Who knocketh? What wilt thou?” + </p> + <p> + A voice answered— + </p> + <p> + “Know’st thou who it was thou laid thy cudgel on?” + </p> + <p> + “No. Neither know I, nor care.” + </p> + <p> + “Belike thou’lt change thy note eftsoons. An thou would + save thy neck, nothing but flight may stead thee. The man is this + moment delivering up the ghost. ’Tis the priest, Father + Andrew!” + </p> + <p> + “God-a-mercy!” exclaimed Canty. He roused his family, + and hoarsely commanded, “Up with ye all and fly—or bide where + ye are and perish!” + </p> + <p> + Scarcely five minutes later the Canty household were in the street and + flying for their lives. John Canty held the Prince by the wrist, and + hurried him along the dark way, giving him this caution in a low voice— + </p> + <p> + “Mind thy tongue, thou mad fool, and speak not our name. I + will choose me a new name, speedily, to throw the law’s dogs off the + scent. Mind thy tongue, I tell thee!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link10-118" id="link10-118"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link10-118.jpg (142K)" src="images/10-118.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + He growled these words to the rest of the family— + </p> + <p> + “If it so chance that we be separated, let each make for London + Bridge; whoso findeth himself as far as the last linen-draper’s shop + on the bridge, let him tarry there till the others be come, then will we + flee into Southwark together.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment the party burst suddenly out of darkness into light; and + not only into light, but into the midst of a multitude of singing, + dancing, and shouting people, massed together on the river frontage. There + was a line of bonfires stretching as far as one could see, up and down the + Thames; London Bridge was illuminated; Southwark Bridge likewise; the + entire river was aglow with the flash and sheen of coloured lights; and + constant explosions of fireworks filled the skies with an intricate + commingling of shooting splendours and a thick rain of dazzling sparks + that almost turned night into day; everywhere were crowds of revellers; + all London seemed to be at large. + </p> + <p> + John Canty delivered himself of a furious curse and commanded a retreat; + but it was too late. He and his tribe were swallowed up in that + swarming hive of humanity, and hopelessly separated from each other in an + instant. We are not considering that the Prince was one of his tribe; + Canty still kept his grip upon him. The Prince’s heart was + beating high with hopes of escape, now. A burly waterman, + considerably exalted with liquor, found himself rudely shoved by Canty in + his efforts to plough through the crowd; he laid his great hand on Canty’s + shoulder and said— + </p> + <p> + “Nay, whither so fast, friend? Dost canker thy soul with + sordid business when all that be leal men and true make holiday?” + </p> + <p> + “Mine affairs are mine own, they concern thee not,” answered + Canty, roughly; “take away thy hand and let me pass.” + </p> + <p> + “Sith that is thy humour, thou’lt <i>not</i> pass, till thou’st + drunk to the Prince of Wales, I tell thee that,” said the waterman, + barring the way resolutely. + </p> + <p> + “Give me the cup, then, and make speed, make speed!” + </p> + <p> + Other revellers were interested by this time. They cried out— + </p> + <p> + “The loving-cup, the loving-cup! make the sour knave drink the + loving-cup, else will we feed him to the fishes.” + </p> + <p> + So a huge loving-cup was brought; the waterman, grasping it by one of its + handles, and with the other hand bearing up the end of an imaginary + napkin, presented it in due and ancient form to Canty, who had to grasp + the opposite handle with one of his hands and take off the lid with the + other, according to ancient custom. This left the Prince hand-free for a + second, of course. He wasted no time, but dived among the forest of + legs about him and disappeared. In another moment he could not have + been harder to find, under that tossing sea of life, if its billows had + been the Atlantic’s and he a lost sixpence. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link10-120" id="link10-120"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link10-120.jpg (148K)" src="images/10-120.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + He very soon realised this fact, and straightway busied himself about his + own affairs without further thought of John Canty. He quickly + realised another thing, too. To wit, that a spurious Prince of Wales + was being feasted by the city in his stead. He easily concluded that + the pauper lad, Tom Canty, had deliberately taken advantage of his + stupendous opportunity and become a usurper. + </p> + <p> + Therefore there was but one course to pursue—find his way to the + Guildhall, make himself known, and denounce the impostor. He also + made up his mind that Tom should be allowed a reasonable time for + spiritual preparation, and then be hanged, drawn and quartered, according + to the law and usage of the day in cases of high treason. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c11" id="c11"></a> <a + name="link11-121" id="link11-121"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link11-121.jpg (56K)" src="images/11-121.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /> <br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XI. At Guildhall. + </p> + <p> + The royal barge, attended by its gorgeous fleet, took its stately way down + the Thames through the wilderness of illuminated boats. The air was laden + with music; the river banks were beruffled with joy-flames; the distant + city lay in a soft luminous glow from its countless invisible bonfires; + above it rose many a slender spire into the sky, incrusted with sparkling + lights, wherefore in their remoteness they seemed like jewelled lances + thrust aloft; as the fleet swept along, it was greeted from the banks with + a continuous hoarse roar of cheers and the ceaseless flash and boom of + artillery. + </p> + <p> + To Tom Canty, half buried in his silken cushions, these sounds and this + spectacle were a wonder unspeakably sublime and astonishing. To his little + friends at his side, the Princess Elizabeth and the Lady Jane Grey, they + were nothing. + </p> + <p> + Arrived at the Dowgate, the fleet was towed up the limpid Walbrook (whose + channel has now been for two centuries buried out of sight under acres of + buildings) to Bucklersbury, past houses and under bridges populous with + merry-makers and brilliantly lighted, and at last came to a halt in a + basin where now is Barge Yard, in the centre of the ancient city of + London. Tom disembarked, and he and his gallant procession crossed + Cheapside and made a short march through the Old Jewry and Basinghall + Street to the Guildhall. + </p> + <p> + Tom and his little ladies were received with due ceremony by the Lord + Mayor and the Fathers of the City, in their gold chains and scarlet robes + of state, and conducted to a rich canopy of state at the head of the great + hall, preceded by heralds making proclamation, and by the Mace and the + City Sword. The lords and ladies who were to attend upon Tom and his + two small friends took their places behind their chairs. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link11-124" id="link11-124"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link11-124.jpg (173K)" src="images/11-124.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + At a lower table the Court grandees and other guests of noble degree were + seated, with the magnates of the city; the commoners took places at a + multitude of tables on the main floor of the hall. From their lofty + vantage-ground the giants Gog and Magog, the ancient guardians of the + city, contemplated the spectacle below them with eyes grown familiar to it + in forgotten generations. There was a bugle-blast and a + proclamation, and a fat butler appeared in a high perch in the leftward + wall, followed by his servitors bearing with impressive solemnity a royal + baron of beef, smoking hot and ready for the knife. + </p> + <p> + After grace, Tom (being instructed) rose—and the whole house with + him—and drank from a portly golden loving-cup with the Princess + Elizabeth; from her it passed to the Lady Jane, and then traversed the + general assemblage. So the banquet began. + </p> + <p> + By midnight the revelry was at its height. Now came one of those + picturesque spectacles so admired in that old day. A description of + it is still extant in the quaint wording of a chronicler who witnessed it: + </p> + <p> + ‘Space being made, presently entered a baron and an earl appareled + after the Turkish fashion in long robes of bawdkin powdered with gold; + hats on their heads of crimson velvet, with great rolls of gold, girded + with two swords, called scimitars, hanging by great bawdricks of gold. + Next came yet another baron and another earl, in two long gowns of + yellow satin, traversed with white satin, and in every bend of white was a + bend of crimson satin, after the fashion of Russia, with furred hats of + gray on their heads; either of them having an hatchet in their hands, and + boots with pykes’ (points a foot long), ’turned up. And + after them came a knight, then the Lord High Admiral, and with him five + nobles, in doublets of crimson velvet, voyded low on the back and before + to the cannell-bone, laced on the breasts with chains of silver; and over + that, short cloaks of crimson satin, and on their heads hats after the + dancers’ fashion, with pheasants’ feathers in them. These + were appareled after the fashion of Prussia. The torchbearers, which + were about an hundred, were appareled in crimson satin and green, like + Moors, their faces black. Next came in a mommarye. Then the minstrels, + which were disguised, danced; and the lords and ladies did wildly dance + also, that it was a pleasure to behold.’ + </p> + <p> + And while Tom, in his high seat, was gazing upon this ‘wild’ + dancing, lost in admiration of the dazzling commingling of kaleidoscopic + colours which the whirling turmoil of gaudy figures below him presented, + the ragged but real little Prince of Wales was proclaiming his rights and + his wrongs, denouncing the impostor, and clamouring for admission at the + gates of Guildhall! The crowd enjoyed this episode prodigiously, and + pressed forward and craned their necks to see the small rioter. Presently + they began to taunt him and mock at him, purposely to goad him into a + higher and still more entertaining fury. Tears of mortification + sprang to his eyes, but he stood his ground and defied the mob right + royally. Other taunts followed, added mockings stung him, and he + exclaimed— + </p> + <p> + “I tell ye again, you pack of unmannerly curs, I am the Prince of + Wales! And all forlorn and friendless as I be, with none to give me word + of grace or help me in my need, yet will not I be driven from my ground, + but will maintain it!” + </p> + <p> + “Though thou be prince or no prince, ’tis all one, thou be’st + a gallant lad, and not friendless neither! Here stand I by thy side + to prove it; and mind I tell thee thou might’st have a worser friend + than Miles Hendon and yet not tire thy legs with seeking. Rest thy small + jaw, my child; I talk the language of these base kennel-rats like to a + very native.” + </p> + <p> + The speaker was a sort of Don Caesar de Bazan in dress, aspect, and + bearing. He was tall, trim-built, muscular. His doublet and + trunks were of rich material, but faded and threadbare, and their + gold-lace adornments were sadly tarnished; his ruff was rumpled and + damaged; the plume in his slouched hat was broken and had a bedraggled and + disreputable look; at his side he wore a long rapier in a rusty iron + sheath; his swaggering carriage marked him at once as a ruffler of the + camp. The speech of this fantastic figure was received with an + explosion of jeers and laughter. Some cried, “’Tis + another prince in disguise!” “’Ware thy tongue, friend: + belike he is dangerous!” "Marry, he looketh it—mark + his eye!” "Pluck the lad from him—to the horse-pond wi’ + the cub!” + </p> + <p> + Instantly a hand was laid upon the Prince, under the impulse of this happy + thought; as instantly the stranger’s long sword was out and the + meddler went to the earth under a sounding thump with the flat of it. The + next moment a score of voices shouted, “Kill the dog! Kill + him! Kill him!” and the mob closed in on the warrior, who backed + himself against a wall and began to lay about him with his long weapon + like a madman. His victims sprawled this way and that, but the + mob-tide poured over their prostrate forms and dashed itself against the + champion with undiminished fury. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link11-127" id="link11-127"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link11-127.jpg (133K)" src="images/11-127.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + His moments seemed numbered, his destruction certain, when suddenly a + trumpet-blast sounded, a voice shouted, “Way for the King’s + messenger!” and a troop of horsemen came charging down upon the mob, + who fled out of harm’s reach as fast as their legs could carry them. + The bold stranger caught up the Prince in his arms, and was soon far away + from danger and the multitude. + </p> + <p> + Return we within the Guildhall. Suddenly, high above the jubilant + roar and thunder of the revel, broke the clear peal of a bugle-note. + There was instant silence—a deep hush; then a single voice + rose—that of the messenger from the palace—and began to pipe + forth a proclamation, the whole multitude standing listening. + </p> + <p> + The closing words, solemnly pronounced, were— + </p> + <p> + “The King is dead!” + </p> + <p> + The great assemblage bent their heads upon their breasts with one accord; + remained so, in profound silence, a few moments; then all sank upon their + knees in a body, stretched out their hands toward Tom, and a mighty shout + burst forth that seemed to shake the building— + </p> + <p> + “Long live the King!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link11-128" id="link11-128"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link11-128.jpg (154K)" src="images/11-128.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Poor Tom’s dazed eyes wandered abroad over this stupefying + spectacle, and finally rested dreamily upon the kneeling princesses beside + him, a moment, then upon the Earl of Hertford. A sudden purpose dawned in + his face. He said, in a low tone, at Lord Hertford’s ear— + </p> + <p> + “Answer me truly, on thy faith and honour! Uttered I here a + command, the which none but a king might hold privilege and prerogative to + utter, would such commandment be obeyed, and none rise up to say me nay?” + </p> + <p> + “None, my liege, in all these realms. In thy person bides the + majesty of England. Thou art the king—thy word is law.” + </p> + <p> + Tom responded, in a strong, earnest voice, and with great animation— + </p> + <p> + “Then shall the king’s law be law of mercy, from this day, and + never more be law of blood! Up from thy knees and away! To the + Tower, and say the King decrees the Duke of Norfolk shall not die!” + </p> + <p> + The words were caught up and carried eagerly from lip to lip far and wide + over the hall, and as Hertford hurried from the presence, another + prodigious shout burst forth— + </p> + <p> + “The reign of blood is ended! Long live Edward, King of + England!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c12" id="c12"></a> <a + name="link12-131" id="link12-131"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link12-131.jpg (62K)" src="images/12-131.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XII. The Prince and his Deliverer. + </p> + <p> + As soon as Miles Hendon and the little prince were clear of the mob, they + struck down through back lanes and alleys toward the river. Their + way was unobstructed until they approached London Bridge; then they + ploughed into the multitude again, Hendon keeping a fast grip upon the + Prince’s—no, the King’s—wrist. The + tremendous news was already abroad, and the boy learned it from a thousand + voices at once—“The King is dead!” The tidings + struck a chill to the heart of the poor little waif, and sent a shudder + through his frame. He realised the greatness of his loss, and was + filled with a bitter grief; for the grim tyrant who had been such a terror + to others had always been gentle with him. The tears sprang to his + eyes and blurred all objects. For an instant he felt himself the + most forlorn, outcast, and forsaken of God’s creatures—then + another cry shook the night with its far-reaching thunders: "Long + live King Edward the Sixth!” and this made his eyes kindle, and + thrilled him with pride to his fingers’ ends. “Ah,” he + thought, “how grand and strange it seems—<i>I am King</i>!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link12-134" id="link12-134"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link12-134.jpg (116K)" src="images/12-134.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Our friends threaded their way slowly through the throngs upon the bridge. + This structure, which had stood for six hundred years, and had been + a noisy and populous thoroughfare all that time, was a curious affair, for + a closely packed rank of stores and shops, with family quarters overhead, + stretched along both sides of it, from one bank of the river to the other. + The Bridge was a sort of town to itself; it had its inn, its + beer-houses, its bakeries, its haberdasheries, its food markets, its + manufacturing industries, and even its church. It looked upon the + two neighbours which it linked together—London and Southwark—as + being well enough as suburbs, but not otherwise particularly important. + It was a close corporation, so to speak; it was a narrow town, of a + single street a fifth of a mile long, its population was but a village + population and everybody in it knew all his fellow-townsmen intimately, + and had known their fathers and mothers before them—and all their + little family affairs into the bargain. It had its aristocracy, of + course—its fine old families of butchers, and bakers, and what-not, + who had occupied the same old premises for five or six hundred years, and + knew the great history of the Bridge from beginning to end, and all its + strange legends; and who always talked bridgy talk, and thought bridgy + thoughts, and lied in a long, level, direct, substantial bridgy way. + It was just the sort of population to be narrow and ignorant and + self-conceited. Children were born on the Bridge, were reared there, grew + to old age, and finally died without ever having set a foot upon any part + of the world but London Bridge alone. Such people would naturally + imagine that the mighty and interminable procession which moved through + its street night and day, with its confused roar of shouts and cries, its + neighings and bellowing and bleatings and its muffled thunder-tramp, was + the one great thing in this world, and themselves somehow the proprietors + of it. And so they were, in effect—at least they could exhibit + it from their windows, and did—for a consideration—whenever a + returning king or hero gave it a fleeting splendour, for there was no + place like it for affording a long, straight, uninterrupted view of + marching columns. + </p> + <p> + Men born and reared upon the Bridge found life unendurably dull and inane + elsewhere. History tells of one of these who left the Bridge at the + age of seventy-one and retired to the country. But he could only + fret and toss in his bed; he could not go to sleep, the deep stillness was + so painful, so awful, so oppressive. When he was worn out with it, + at last, he fled back to his old home, a lean and haggard spectre, and + fell peacefully to rest and pleasant dreams under the lulling music of the + lashing waters and the boom and crash and thunder of London Bridge. + </p> + <p> + In the times of which we are writing, the Bridge furnished ‘object + lessons’ in English history for its children—namely, the livid + and decaying heads of renowned men impaled upon iron spikes atop of its + gateways. But we digress. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link12-136" id="link12-136"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link12-136.jpg (35K)" src="images/12-136.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Hendon’s lodgings were in the little inn on the Bridge. As he + neared the door with his small friend, a rough voice said— + </p> + <p> + “So, thou’rt come at last! Thou’lt not escape + again, I warrant thee; and if pounding thy bones to a pudding can teach + thee somewhat, thou’lt not keep us waiting another time, mayhap,”—and + John Canty put out his hand to seize the boy. + </p> + <p> + Miles Hendon stepped in the way and said— + </p> + <p> + “Not too fast, friend. Thou art needlessly rough, methinks. + What is the lad to thee?” + </p> + <p> + “If it be any business of thine to make and meddle in others’ + affairs, he is my son.” + </p> + <p> + “’Tis a lie!” cried the little King, hotly. + </p> + <p> + “Boldly said, and I believe thee, whether thy small headpiece be + sound or cracked, my boy. But whether this scurvy ruffian be thy + father or no, ’tis all one, he shall not have thee to beat thee and + abuse, according to his threat, so thou prefer to bide with me.” + </p> + <p> + “I do, I do—I know him not, I loathe him, and will die before + I will go with him.” + </p> + <p> + “Then ’tis settled, and there is nought more to say.” + </p> + <p> + “We will see, as to that!” exclaimed John Canty, striding past + Hendon to get at the boy; “by force shall he—” + </p> + <p> + “If thou do but touch him, thou animated offal, I will spit thee + like a goose!” said Hendon, barring the way and laying his hand upon + his sword hilt. Canty drew back. "Now mark ye,” + continued Hendon, “I took this lad under my protection when a mob of + such as thou would have mishandled him, mayhap killed him; dost imagine I + will desert him now to a worser fate?—for whether thou art his + father or no—and sooth to say, I think it is a lie—a decent + swift death were better for such a lad than life in such brute hands as + thine. So go thy ways, and set quick about it, for I like not much + bandying of words, being not over-patient in my nature.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link12-137" id="link12-137"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link12-137.jpg (107K)" src="images/12-137.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + John Canty moved off, muttering threats and curses, and was swallowed from + sight in the crowd. Hendon ascended three flights of stairs to his + room, with his charge, after ordering a meal to be sent thither. It + was a poor apartment, with a shabby bed and some odds and ends of old + furniture in it, and was vaguely lighted by a couple of sickly candles. + The little King dragged himself to the bed and lay down upon it, almost + exhausted with hunger and fatigue. He had been on his feet a good + part of a day and a night (for it was now two or three o’clock in + the morning), and had eaten nothing meantime. He murmured drowsily— + </p> + <p> + “Prithee call me when the table is spread,” and sank into a + deep sleep immediately. + </p> + <p> + A smile twinkled in Hendon’s eye, and he said to himself— + </p> + <p> + “By the mass, the little beggar takes to one’s quarters and + usurps one’s bed with as natural and easy a grace as if he owned + them—with never a by-your-leave or so-please-it-you, or anything of + the sort. In his diseased ravings he called himself the Prince of + Wales, and bravely doth he keep up the character. Poor little + friendless rat, doubtless his mind has been disordered with ill-usage. + Well, I will be his friend; I have saved him, and it draweth me + strongly to him; already I love the bold-tongued little rascal. How + soldier-like he faced the smutty rabble and flung back his high defiance! + And what a comely, sweet and gentle face he hath, now that sleep + hath conjured away its troubles and its griefs. I will teach him; I will + cure his malady; yea, I will be his elder brother, and care for him and + watch over him; and whoso would shame him or do him hurt may order his + shroud, for though I be burnt for it he shall need it!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link12-139" id="link12-139"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link12-139.jpg (110K)" src="images/12-139.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + He bent over the boy and contemplated him with kind and pitying interest, + tapping the young cheek tenderly and smoothing back the tangled curls with + his great brown hand. A slight shiver passed over the boy’s + form. Hendon muttered— + </p> + <p> + “See, now, how like a man it was to let him lie here uncovered and + fill his body with deadly rheums. Now what shall I do? ’twill + wake him to take him up and put him within the bed, and he sorely needeth + sleep.” + </p> + <p> + He looked about for extra covering, but finding none, doffed his doublet + and wrapped the lad in it, saying, “I am used to nipping air and + scant apparel, ’tis little I shall mind the cold!”—then + walked up and down the room, to keep his blood in motion, soliloquising as + before. + </p> + <p> + “His injured mind persuades him he is Prince of Wales; ’twill + be odd to have a Prince of Wales still with us, now that he that <i>was</i> + the prince is prince no more, but king—for this poor mind is set + upon the one fantasy, and will not reason out that now it should cast by + the prince and call itself the king. . . If my father liveth still, after + these seven years that I have heard nought from home in my foreign + dungeon, he will welcome the poor lad and give him generous shelter for my + sake; so will my good elder brother, Arthur; my other brother, Hugh—but + I will crack his crown an <i>he</i> interfere, the fox-hearted, + ill-conditioned animal! Yes, thither will we fare—and straightway, + too.” + </p> + <p> + A servant entered with a smoking meal, disposed it upon a small deal + table, placed the chairs, and took his departure, leaving such cheap + lodgers as these to wait upon themselves. The door slammed after + him, and the noise woke the boy, who sprang to a sitting posture, and shot + a glad glance about him; then a grieved look came into his face and he + murmured to himself, with a deep sigh, “Alack, it was but a dream, + woe is me!” Next he noticed Miles Hendon’s doublet—glanced + from that to Hendon, comprehended the sacrifice that had been made for + him, and said, gently— + </p> + <p> + “Thou art good to me, yes, thou art very good to me. Take it + and put it on—I shall not need it more.” + </p> + <p> + Then he got up and walked to the washstand in the corner and stood there, + waiting. Hendon said in a cheery voice— + </p> + <p> + “We’ll have a right hearty sup and bite, now, for everything + is savoury and smoking hot, and that and thy nap together will make thee a + little man again, never fear!” + </p> + <p> + The boy made no answer, but bent a steady look, that was filled with grave + surprise, and also somewhat touched with impatience, upon the tall knight + of the sword. Hendon was puzzled, and said— + </p> + <p> + “What’s amiss?” + </p> + <p> + “Good sir, I would wash me.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, is that all? Ask no permission of Miles Hendon for aught + thou cravest. Make thyself perfectly free here, and welcome, with + all that are his belongings.” + </p> + <p> + Still the boy stood, and moved not; more, he tapped the floor once or + twice with his small impatient foot. Hendon was wholly perplexed. + Said he— + </p> + <p> + “Bless us, what is it?” + </p> + <p> + “Prithee pour the water, and make not so many words!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link12-141" id="link12-141"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link12-141.jpg (125K)" src="images/12-141.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Hendon, suppressing a horse-laugh, and saying to himself, “By all + the saints, but this is admirable!” stepped briskly forward and did + the small insolent’s bidding; then stood by, in a sort of + stupefaction, until the command, “Come—the towel!” woke + him sharply up. He took up a towel, from under the boy’s nose, + and handed it to him without comment. He now proceeded to comfort + his own face with a wash, and while he was at it his adopted child seated + himself at the table and prepared to fall to. Hendon despatched his + ablutions with alacrity, then drew back the other chair and was about to + place himself at table, when the boy said, indignantly— + </p> + <p> + “Forbear! Wouldst sit in the presence of the King?” + </p> + <p> + This blow staggered Hendon to his foundations. He muttered to + himself, “Lo, the poor thing’s madness is up with the time! + It hath changed with the great change that is come to the realm, and + now in fancy is he <i>king</i>! Good lack, I must humour the conceit, too—there + is no other way—faith, he would order me to the Tower, else!” + </p> + <p> + And pleased with this jest, he removed the chair from the table, took his + stand behind the King, and proceeded to wait upon him in the courtliest + way he was capable of. + </p> + <p> + While the King ate, the rigour of his royal dignity relaxed a little, and + with his growing contentment came a desire to talk. He said—“I + think thou callest thyself Miles Hendon, if I heard thee aright?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Sire,” Miles replied; then observed to himself, “If + I <i>must</i> humour the poor lad’s madness, I must ‘Sire’ + him, I must ‘Majesty’ him, I must not go by halves, I must + stick at nothing that belongeth to the part I play, else shall I play it + ill and work evil to this charitable and kindly cause.” + </p> + <p> + The King warmed his heart with a second glass of wine, and said—“I + would know thee—tell me thy story. Thou hast a gallant way + with thee, and a noble—art nobly born?” + </p> + <p> + “We are of the tail of the nobility, good your Majesty. My + father is a baronet—one of the smaller lords by knight service {2}—Sir + Richard Hendon of Hendon Hall, by Monk’s Holm in Kent.” + </p> + <p> + “The name has escaped my memory. Go on—tell me thy + story.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link12-142" id="link12-142"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link12-142.jpg (102K)" src="images/12-142.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “’Tis not much, your Majesty, yet perchance it may beguile a + short half-hour for want of a better. My father, Sir Richard, is + very rich, and of a most generous nature. My mother died whilst I + was yet a boy. I have two brothers: Arthur, my elder, with a + soul like to his father’s; and Hugh, younger than I, a mean spirit, + covetous, treacherous, vicious, underhanded—a reptile. Such + was he from the cradle; such was he ten years past, when I last saw him—a + ripe rascal at nineteen, I being twenty then, and Arthur twenty-two. + There is none other of us but the Lady Edith, my cousin—she + was sixteen then—beautiful, gentle, good, the daughter of an earl, + the last of her race, heiress of a great fortune and a lapsed title. + My father was her guardian. I loved her and she loved me; but + she was betrothed to Arthur from the cradle, and Sir Richard would not + suffer the contract to be broken. Arthur loved another maid, and + bade us be of good cheer and hold fast to the hope that delay and luck + together would some day give success to our several causes. Hugh + loved the Lady Edith’s fortune, though in truth he said it was + herself he loved—but then ’twas his way, alway, to say the one + thing and mean the other. But he lost his arts upon the girl; he + could deceive my father, but none else. My father loved him best of + us all, and trusted and believed him; for he was the youngest child, and + others hated him—these qualities being in all ages sufficient to win + a parent’s dearest love; and he had a smooth persuasive tongue, with + an admirable gift of lying—and these be qualities which do mightily + assist a blind affection to cozen itself. I was wild—in troth + I might go yet farther and say <i>very</i> wild, though ’twas a + wildness of an innocent sort, since it hurt none but me, brought shame to + none, nor loss, nor had in it any taint of crime or baseness, or what + might not beseem mine honourable degree. + </p> + <p> + “Yet did my brother Hugh turn these faults to good account—he + seeing that our brother Arthur’s health was but indifferent, and + hoping the worst might work him profit were I swept out of the path—so—but + ’twere a long tale, good my liege, and little worth the telling. + Briefly, then, this brother did deftly magnify my faults and make + them crimes; ending his base work with finding a silken ladder in mine + apartments—conveyed thither by his own means—and did convince + my father by this, and suborned evidence of servants and other lying + knaves, that I was minded to carry off my Edith and marry with her in rank + defiance of his will. + </p> + <p> + “Three years of banishment from home and England might make a + soldier and a man of me, my father said, and teach me some degree of + wisdom. I fought out my long probation in the continental wars, + tasting sumptuously of hard knocks, privation, and adventure; but in my + last battle I was taken captive, and during the seven years that have + waxed and waned since then, a foreign dungeon hath harboured me. Through + wit and courage I won to the free air at last, and fled hither straight; + and am but just arrived, right poor in purse and raiment, and poorer still + in knowledge of what these dull seven years have wrought at Hendon Hall, + its people and belongings. So please you, sir, my meagre tale is + told.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou hast been shamefully abused!” said the little King, with + a flashing eye. "But I will right thee—by the cross will I! + The King hath said it.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link12-145" id="link12-145"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link12-145.jpg (79K)" src="images/12-145.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Then, fired by the story of Miles’s wrongs, he loosed his tongue and + poured the history of his own recent misfortunes into the ears of his + astonished listener. When he had finished, Miles said to himself— + </p> + <p> + “Lo, what an imagination he hath! Verily, this is no common + mind; else, crazed or sane, it could not weave so straight and gaudy a + tale as this out of the airy nothings wherewith it hath wrought this + curious romaunt. Poor ruined little head, it shall not lack friend or + shelter whilst I bide with the living. He shall never leave my side; + he shall be my pet, my little comrade. And he shall be cured!—ay, + made whole and sound—then will he make himself a name—and + proud shall I be to say, ‘Yes, he is mine—I took him, a + homeless little ragamuffin, but I saw what was in him, and I said his name + would be heard some day—behold him, observe him—was I right?’” + </p> + <p> + The King spoke—in a thoughtful, measured voice— + </p> + <p> + “Thou didst save me injury and shame, perchance my life, and so my + crown. Such service demandeth rich reward. Name thy desire, and so + it be within the compass of my royal power, it is thine.” + </p> + <p> + This fantastic suggestion startled Hendon out of his reverie. He was + about to thank the King and put the matter aside with saying he had only + done his duty and desired no reward, but a wiser thought came into his + head, and he asked leave to be silent a few moments and consider the + gracious offer—an idea which the King gravely approved, remarking + that it was best to be not too hasty with a thing of such great import. + </p> + <p> + Miles reflected during some moments, then said to himself, “Yes, + that is the thing to do—by any other means it were impossible to get + at it—and certes, this hour’s experience has taught me ’twould + be most wearing and inconvenient to continue it as it is. Yes, I will + propose it; ’twas a happy accident that I did not throw the chance + away.” Then he dropped upon one knee and said— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link12-146" id="link12-146"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link12-146.jpg (100K)" src="images/12-146.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “My poor service went not beyond the limit of a subject’s + simple duty, and therefore hath no merit; but since your Majesty is + pleased to hold it worthy some reward, I take heart of grace to make + petition to this effect. Near four hundred years ago, as your grace + knoweth, there being ill blood betwixt John, King of England, and the King + of France, it was decreed that two champions should fight together in the + lists, and so settle the dispute by what is called the arbitrament of God. + These two kings, and the Spanish king, being assembled to witness + and judge the conflict, the French champion appeared; but so redoubtable + was he, that our English knights refused to measure weapons with him. + So the matter, which was a weighty one, was like to go against the + English monarch by default. Now in the Tower lay the Lord de Courcy, + the mightiest arm in England, stripped of his honours and possessions, and + wasting with long captivity. Appeal was made to him; he gave assent, + and came forth arrayed for battle; but no sooner did the Frenchman glimpse + his huge frame and hear his famous name but he fled away, and the French + king’s cause was lost. King John restored De Courcy’s + titles and possessions, and said, ‘Name thy wish and thou shalt have + it, though it cost me half my kingdom;’ whereat De Courcy, kneeling, + as I do now, made answer, ‘This, then, I ask, my liege; that I and + my successors may have and hold the privilege of remaining covered in the + presence of the kings of England, henceforth while the throne shall last.’ + The boon was granted, as your Majesty knoweth; and there hath been no + time, these four hundred years, that that line has failed of an heir; and + so, even unto this day, the head of that ancient house still weareth his + hat or helm before the King’s Majesty, without let or hindrance, and + this none other may do. {3} Invoking this precedent in aid of my prayer, I + beseech the King to grant to me but this one grace and privilege—to + my more than sufficient reward—and none other, to wit: that I + and my heirs, for ever, may <i>sit</i> in the presence of the Majesty of + England!” + </p> + <p> + “Rise, Sir Miles Hendon, Knight,” said the King, gravely—giving + the accolade with Hendon’s sword—“rise, and seat + thyself. Thy petition is granted. Whilst England remains, and + the crown continues, the privilege shall not lapse.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link12-148" id="link12-148"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link12-148.jpg (127K)" src="images/12-148.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + His Majesty walked apart, musing, and Hendon dropped into a chair at + table, observing to himself, “’Twas a brave thought, and hath + wrought me a mighty deliverance; my legs are grievously wearied. An I had + not thought of that, I must have had to stand for weeks, till my poor lad’s + wits are cured.” After a little, he went on, “And so I + am become a knight of the Kingdom of Dreams and Shadows! A most odd and + strange position, truly, for one so matter-of-fact as I. I will not + laugh—no, God forbid, for this thing which is so substanceless to me + is <i>real</i> to him. And to me, also, in one way, it is not a + falsity, for it reflects with truth the sweet and generous spirit that is + in him.” After a pause: “Ah, what if he should call me + by my fine title before folk!—there’d be a merry contrast + betwixt my glory and my raiment! But no matter, let him call me what + he will, so it please him; I shall be content.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c13" id="c13"></a> <a + name="link13-149" id="link13-149"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link13-149.jpg (41K)" src="images/13-149.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link13-151" id="link13-151"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link13-151.jpg (124K)" src="images/13-151.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XIII. The disappearance of the Prince. + </p> + <p> + A heavy drowsiness presently fell upon the two comrades. The King + said— + </p> + <p> + “Remove these rags.”—meaning his clothing. + </p> + <p> + Hendon disapparelled the boy without dissent or remark, tucked him up in + bed, then glanced about the room, saying to himself, ruefully, “He + hath taken my bed again, as before—marry, what shall <i>I</i> do?” + The little King observed his perplexity, and dissipated it with a + word. He said, sleepily— + </p> + <p> + “Thou wilt sleep athwart the door, and guard it.” In a + moment more he was out of his troubles, in a deep slumber. + </p> + <p> + “Dear heart, he should have been born a king!” muttered + Hendon, admiringly; “he playeth the part to a marvel.” + </p> + <p> + Then he stretched himself across the door, on the floor, saying + contentedly— + </p> + <p> + “I have lodged worse for seven years; ’twould be but ill + gratitude to Him above to find fault with this.” + </p> + <p> + He dropped asleep as the dawn appeared. Toward noon he rose, + uncovered his unconscious ward—a section at a time—and took + his measure with a string. The King awoke, just as he had completed + his work, complained of the cold, and asked what he was doing. + </p> + <p> + “’Tis done, now, my liege,” said Hendon; “I have a + bit of business outside, but will presently return; sleep thou again—thou + needest it. There—let me cover thy head also—thou’lt be + warm the sooner.” + </p> + <p> + The King was back in dreamland before this speech was ended. Miles slipped + softly out, and slipped as softly in again, in the course of thirty or + forty minutes, with a complete second-hand suit of boy’s clothing, + of cheap material, and showing signs of wear; but tidy, and suited to the + season of the year. He seated himself, and began to overhaul his + purchase, mumbling to himself— + </p> + <p> + “A longer purse would have got a better sort, but when one has not + the long purse one must be content with what a short one may do— + </p> + <p> + “‘There was a woman in our town, <br />In our town did dwell—’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link13-153" id="link13-153"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link13-153.jpg (83K)" src="images/13-153.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “He stirred, methinks—I must sing in a less thunderous key; + ’tis not good to mar his sleep, with this journey before him, and he + so wearied out, poor chap . . . This garment—’tis well enough—a + stitch here and another one there will set it aright. This other is + better, albeit a stitch or two will not come amiss in it, likewise . . . + <i>These</i> be very good and sound, and will keep his small feet warm and + dry—an odd new thing to him, belike, since he has doubtless been + used to foot it bare, winters and summers the same . . . Would thread were + bread, seeing one getteth a year’s sufficiency for a farthing, and + such a brave big needle without cost, for mere love. Now shall I + have the demon’s own time to thread it!” + </p> + <p> + And so he had. He did as men have always done, and probably always + will do, to the end of time—held the needle still, and tried to + thrust the thread through the eye, which is the opposite of a woman’s + way. Time and time again the thread missed the mark, going sometimes + on one side of the needle, sometimes on the other, sometimes doubling up + against the shaft; but he was patient, having been through these + experiences before, when he was soldiering. He succeeded at last, + and took up the garment that had lain waiting, meantime, across his lap, + and began his work. + </p> + <p> + “The inn is paid—the breakfast that is to come, included—and + there is wherewithal left to buy a couple of donkeys and meet our little + costs for the two or three days betwixt this and the plenty that awaits us + at Hendon Hall— + </p> + <p> + “‘She loved her hus—’ + </p> + <p> + “Body o’ me! I have driven the needle under my nail! . . + . It matters little—’tis not a novelty—yet ’tis + not a convenience, neither. . . . We shall be merry there, little one, + never doubt it! Thy troubles will vanish there, and likewise thy sad + distemper— + </p> + <p> + “‘She loved her husband dearilee, <br />But another man—’ + </p> + <p> + “These be noble large stitches!”—holding the garment up + and viewing it admiringly—“they have a grandeur and a majesty + that do cause these small stingy ones of the tailor-man to look mightily + paltry and plebeian— + </p> + <p> + “‘She loved her husband dearilee, <br />But another man he + loved she,—’ + </p> + <p> + “Marry, ’tis done—a goodly piece of work, too, and + wrought with expedition. Now will I wake him, apparel him, pour for + him, feed him, and then will we hie us to the mart by the Tabard Inn in + Southwark and—be pleased to rise, my liege!—he answereth not—what + ho, my liege!—of a truth must I profane his sacred person with a + touch, sith his slumber is deaf to speech. What!” + </p> + <p> + He threw back the covers—the boy was gone! + </p> + <p> + He stared about him in speechless astonishment for a moment; noticed for + the first time that his ward’s ragged raiment was also missing; then + he began to rage and storm and shout for the innkeeper. At that + moment a servant entered with the breakfast. + </p> + <p> + “Explain, thou limb of Satan, or thy time is come!” roared the + man of war, and made so savage a spring toward the waiter that this latter + could not find his tongue, for the instant, for fright and surprise. + "Where is the boy?” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link13-155" id="link13-155"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link13-155.jpg (157K)" src="images/13-155.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + In disjointed and trembling syllables the man gave the information + desired. + </p> + <p> + “You were hardly gone from the place, your worship, when a youth + came running and said it was your worship’s will that the boy come + to you straight, at the bridge-end on the Southwark side. I brought + him hither; and when he woke the lad and gave his message, the lad did + grumble some little for being disturbed ‘so early,’ as he + called it, but straightway trussed on his rags and went with the youth, + only saying it had been better manners that your worship came yourself, + not sent a stranger—and so—” + </p> + <p> + “And so thou’rt a fool!—a fool and easily cozened—hang + all thy breed! Yet mayhap no hurt is done. Possibly no harm is meant + the boy. I will go fetch him. Make the table ready. Stay! + the coverings of the bed were disposed as if one lay beneath them—happened + that by accident?” + </p> + <p> + “I know not, good your worship. I saw the youth meddle with + them—he that came for the boy.” + </p> + <p> + “Thousand deaths! ’Twas done to deceive me—’tis + plain ’twas done to gain time. Hark ye! Was that youth + alone?” + </p> + <p> + “All alone, your worship.” + </p> + <p> + “Art sure?” + </p> + <p> + “Sure, your worship.” + </p> + <p> + “Collect thy scattered wits—bethink thee—take time, man.” + </p> + <p> + After a moment’s thought, the servant said— + </p> + <p> + “When he came, none came with him; but now I remember me that as the + two stepped into the throng of the Bridge, a ruffian-looking man plunged + out from some near place; and just as he was joining them—” + </p> + <p> + “What <i>then</i>?—out with it!” thundered the impatient + Hendon, interrupting. + </p> + <p> + “Just then the crowd lapped them up and closed them in, and I saw no + more, being called by my master, who was in a rage because a joint that + the scrivener had ordered was forgot, though I take all the saints to + witness that to blame <i>me</i> for that miscarriage were like holding the + unborn babe to judgment for sins com—” + </p> + <p> + “Out of my sight, idiot! Thy prating drives me mad! Hold! + Whither art flying? Canst not bide still an instant? Went they + toward Southwark?” + </p> + <p> + “Even so, your worship—for, as I said before, as to that + detestable joint, the babe unborn is no whit more blameless than—” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link13-156" id="link13-156"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link13-156.jpg (77K)" src="images/13-156.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Art here <i>yet</i>! And prating still! Vanish, lest I + throttle thee!” The servitor vanished. Hendon followed after + him, passed him, and plunged down the stairs two steps at a stride, + muttering, “’Tis that scurvy villain that claimed he was his + son. I have lost thee, my poor little mad master—it is a + bitter thought—and I had come to love thee so! No! by book and + bell, <i>not</i> lost! Not lost, for I will ransack the land till I + find thee again. Poor child, yonder is his breakfast—and mine, + but I have no hunger now; so, let the rats have it—speed, speed! + that is the word!” As he wormed his swift way through the + noisy multitudes upon the Bridge he several times said to himself—clinging + to the thought as if it were a particularly pleasing one—“He + grumbled, but he <i>went</i>—he went, yes, because he thought Miles + Hendon asked it, sweet lad—he would ne’er have done it for + another, I know it well.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c14" id="c14"></a> <a + name="link14-159" id="link14-159"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link14-159.jpg (78K)" src="images/14-159.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /> <br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XIV. ‘Le Roi est mort—vive le Roi.’ + </p> + <p> + Toward daylight of the same morning, Tom Canty stirred out of a heavy + sleep and opened his eyes in the dark. He lay silent a few moments, + trying to analyse his confused thoughts and impressions, and get some sort + of meaning out of them; then suddenly he burst out in a rapturous but + guarded voice— + </p> + <p> + “I see it all, I see it all! Now God be thanked, I am indeed + awake at last! Come, joy! vanish, sorrow! Ho, Nan! Bet! kick + off your straw and hie ye hither to my side, till I do pour into your + unbelieving ears the wildest madcap dream that ever the spirits of night + did conjure up to astonish the soul of man withal! . . . Ho, Nan, I say! + Bet!” + </p> + <p> + A dim form appeared at his side, and a voice said— + </p> + <p> + “Wilt deign to deliver thy commands?” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link14-162" id="link14-162"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link14-162.jpg (99K)" src="images/14-162.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Commands? . . . O, woe is me, I know thy voice! Speak thou—who + am I?” + </p> + <p> + “Thou? In sooth, yesternight wert thou the Prince of Wales; + to-day art thou my most gracious liege, Edward, King of England.” + </p> + <p> + Tom buried his head among his pillows, murmuring plaintively— + </p> + <p> + “Alack, it was no dream! Go to thy rest, sweet sir—leave + me to my sorrows.” + </p> + <p> + Tom slept again, and after a time he had this pleasant dream. He + thought it was summer, and he was playing, all alone, in the fair meadow + called Goodman’s Fields, when a dwarf only a foot high, with long + red whiskers and a humped back, appeared to him suddenly and said, “Dig + by that stump.” He did so, and found twelve bright new pennies—wonderful + riches! Yet this was not the best of it; for the dwarf said— + </p> + <p> + “I know thee. Thou art a good lad, and a deserving; thy + distresses shall end, for the day of thy reward is come. Dig here + every seventh day, and thou shalt find always the same treasure, twelve + bright new pennies. Tell none—keep the secret.” + </p> + <p> + Then the dwarf vanished, and Tom flew to Offal Court with his prize, + saying to himself, “Every night will I give my father a penny; he + will think I begged it, it will glad his heart, and I shall no more be + beaten. One penny every week the good priest that teacheth me shall have; + mother, Nan, and Bet the other four. We be done with hunger and rags, now, + done with fears and frets and savage usage.” + </p> + <p> + In his dream he reached his sordid home all out of breath, but with eyes + dancing with grateful enthusiasm; cast four of his pennies into his mother’s + lap and cried out— + </p> + <p> + “They are for thee!—all of them, every one!—for thee and + Nan and Bet—and honestly come by, not begged nor stolen!” + </p> + <p> + The happy and astonished mother strained him to her breast and exclaimed— + </p> + <p> + “It waxeth late—may it please your Majesty to rise?” + </p> + <p> + Ah! that was not the answer he was expecting. The dream had snapped + asunder—he was awake. + </p> + <p> + He opened his eyes—the richly clad First Lord of the Bedchamber was + kneeling by his couch. The gladness of the lying dream faded away—the + poor boy recognised that he was still a captive and a king. The room + was filled with courtiers clothed in purple mantles—the mourning + colour—and with noble servants of the monarch. Tom sat up in + bed and gazed out from the heavy silken curtains upon this fine company. + </p> + <p> + The weighty business of dressing began, and one courtier after another + knelt and paid his court and offered to the little King his condolences + upon his heavy loss, whilst the dressing proceeded. In the + beginning, a shirt was taken up by the Chief Equerry in Waiting, who + passed it to the First Lord of the Buckhounds, who passed it to the Second + Gentleman of the Bedchamber, who passed it to the Head Ranger of Windsor + Forest, who passed it to the Third Groom of the Stole, who passed it to + the Chancellor Royal of the Duchy of Lancaster, who passed it to the + Master of the Wardrobe, who passed it to Norroy King-at-Arms, who passed + it to the Constable of the Tower, who passed it to the Chief Steward of + the Household, who passed it to the Hereditary Grand Diaperer, who passed + it to the Lord High Admiral of England, who passed it to the Archbishop of + Canterbury, who passed it to the First Lord of the Bedchamber, who took + what was left of it and put it on Tom. Poor little wondering chap, + it reminded him of passing buckets at a fire. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link14-164" id="link14-164"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link14-164.jpg (59K)" src="images/14-164.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Each garment in its turn had to go through this slow and solemn process; + consequently Tom grew very weary of the ceremony; so weary that he felt an + almost gushing gratefulness when he at last saw his long silken hose begin + the journey down the line and knew that the end of the matter was drawing + near. But he exulted too soon. The First Lord of the + Bedchamber received the hose and was about to encase Tom’s legs in + them, when a sudden flush invaded his face and he hurriedly hustled the + things back into the hands of the Archbishop of Canterbury with an + astounded look and a whispered, “See, my lord!” pointing to a + something connected with the hose. The Archbishop paled, then + flushed, and passed the hose to the Lord High Admiral, whispering, “See, + my lord!” The Admiral passed the hose to the Hereditary Grand + Diaperer, and had hardly breath enough in his body to ejaculate, “See, + my lord!” The hose drifted backward along the line, to the + Chief Steward of the Household, the Constable of the Tower, Norroy + King-at-Arms, the Master of the Wardrobe, the Chancellor Royal of the + Duchy of Lancaster, the Third Groom of the Stole, the Head Ranger of + Windsor Forest, the Second Gentleman of the Bedchamber, the First Lord of + the Buckhounds,—accompanied always with that amazed and frightened + “See! see!”—till they finally reached the hands of the + Chief Equerry in Waiting, who gazed a moment, with a pallid face, upon + what had caused all this dismay, then hoarsely whispered, “Body of + my life, a tag gone from a truss-point!—to the Tower with the Head + Keeper of the King’s Hose!”—after which he leaned upon + the shoulder of the First Lord of the Buckhounds to regather his vanished + strength whilst fresh hose, without any damaged strings to them, were + brought. + </p> + <p> + But all things must have an end, and so in time Tom Canty was in a + condition to get out of bed. The proper official poured water, the + proper official engineered the washing, the proper official stood by with + a towel, and by-and-by Tom got safely through the purifying stage and was + ready for the services of the Hairdresser-royal. When he at length + emerged from this master’s hands, he was a gracious figure and as + pretty as a girl, in his mantle and trunks of purple satin, and + purple-plumed cap. He now moved in state toward his breakfast-room, + through the midst of the courtly assemblage; and as he passed, these fell + back, leaving his way free, and dropped upon their knees. + </p> + <p> + After breakfast he was conducted, with regal ceremony, attended by his + great officers and his guard of fifty Gentlemen Pensioners bearing gilt + battle-axes, to the throne-room, where he proceeded to transact business + of state. His ‘uncle,’ Lord Hertford, took his stand by + the throne, to assist the royal mind with wise counsel. + </p> + <p> + The body of illustrious men named by the late King as his executors + appeared, to ask Tom’s approval of certain acts of theirs—rather + a form, and yet not wholly a form, since there was no Protector as yet. + The Archbishop of Canterbury made report of the decree of the + Council of Executors concerning the obsequies of his late most illustrious + Majesty, and finished by reading the signatures of the Executors, to wit: + the Archbishop of Canterbury; the Lord Chancellor of England; + William Lord St. John; John Lord Russell; Edward Earl of Hertford; John + Viscount Lisle; Cuthbert Bishop of Durham— + </p> + <p> + Tom was not listening—an earlier clause of the document was puzzling + him. At this point he turned and whispered to Lord Hertford— + </p> + <p> + “What day did he say the burial hath been appointed for?” + </p> + <p> + “The sixteenth of the coming month, my liege.” + </p> + <p> + “’Tis a strange folly. Will he keep?” + </p> + <p> + Poor chap, he was still new to the customs of royalty; he was used to + seeing the forlorn dead of Offal Court hustled out of the way with a very + different sort of expedition. However, the Lord Hertford set his + mind at rest with a word or two. + </p> + <p> + A secretary of state presented an order of the Council appointing the + morrow at eleven for the reception of the foreign ambassadors, and desired + the King’s assent. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link14-166" id="link14-166"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link14-166.jpg (136K)" src="images/14-166.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Tom turned an inquiring look toward Hertford, who whispered— + </p> + <p> + “Your Majesty will signify consent. They come to testify their + royal masters’ sense of the heavy calamity which hath visited your + Grace and the realm of England.” + </p> + <p> + Tom did as he was bidden. Another secretary began to read a preamble + concerning the expenses of the late King’s household, which had + amounted to 28,000 pounds during the preceding six months—a sum so + vast that it made Tom Canty gasp; he gasped again when the fact appeared + that 20,000 pounds of this money was still owing and unpaid; {4} and once + more when it appeared that the King’s coffers were about empty, and + his twelve hundred servants much embarrassed for lack of the wages due + them. Tom spoke out, with lively apprehension— + </p> + <p> + “We be going to the dogs, ’tis plain. ’Tis meet + and necessary that we take a smaller house and set the servants at large, + sith they be of no value but to make delay, and trouble one with offices + that harass the spirit and shame the soul, they misbecoming any but a + doll, that hath nor brains nor hands to help itself withal. I + remember me of a small house that standeth over against the fish-market, + by Billingsgate—” + </p> + <p> + A sharp pressure upon Tom’s arm stopped his foolish tongue and sent + a blush to his face; but no countenance there betrayed any sign that this + strange speech had been remarked or given concern. + </p> + <p> + A secretary made report that forasmuch as the late King had provided in + his will for conferring the ducal degree upon the Earl of Hertford and + raising his brother, Sir Thomas Seymour, to the peerage, and likewise + Hertford’s son to an earldom, together with similar aggrandisements + to other great servants of the Crown, the Council had resolved to hold a + sitting on the 16th of February for the delivering and confirming of these + honours, and that meantime, the late King not having granted, in writing, + estates suitable to the support of these dignities, the Council, knowing + his private wishes in that regard, had thought proper to grant to Seymour + ‘500 pound lands,’ and to Hertford’s son ‘800 + pound lands, and 300 pound of the next bishop’s lands which should + fall vacant,’—his present Majesty being willing. {5} + </p> + <p> + Tom was about to blurt out something about the propriety of paying the + late King’s debts first, before squandering all this money, but a + timely touch upon his arm, from the thoughtful Hertford, saved him this + indiscretion; wherefore he gave the royal assent, without spoken comment, + but with much inward discomfort. While he sat reflecting a moment + over the ease with which he was doing strange and glittering miracles, a + happy thought shot into his mind: why not make his mother Duchess of + Offal Court, and give her an estate? But a sorrowful thought swept + it instantly away: he was only a king in name, these grave veterans and + great nobles were his masters; to them his mother was only the creature of + a diseased mind; they would simply listen to his project with unbelieving + ears, then send for the doctor. + </p> + <p> + The dull work went tediously on. Petitions were read, and + proclamations, patents, and all manner of wordy, repetitious, and + wearisome papers relating to the public business; and at last Tom sighed + pathetically and murmured to himself, “In what have I offended, that + the good God should take me away from the fields and the free air and the + sunshine, to shut me up here and make me a king and afflict me so?” + Then his poor muddled head nodded a while and presently drooped to + his shoulder; and the business of the empire came to a standstill for want + of that august factor, the ratifying power. Silence ensued around + the slumbering child, and the sages of the realm ceased from their + deliberations. + </p> + <p> + During the forenoon, Tom had an enjoyable hour, by permission of his + keepers, Hertford and St. John, with the Lady Elizabeth and the little + Lady Jane Grey; though the spirits of the princesses were rather subdued + by the mighty stroke that had fallen upon the royal house; and at the end + of the visit his ‘elder sister’—afterwards the ‘Bloody + Mary’ of history—chilled him with a solemn interview which had + but one merit in his eyes, its brevity. He had a few moments to + himself, and then a slim lad of about twelve years of age was admitted to + his presence, whose clothing, except his snowy ruff and the laces about + his wrists, was of black,—doublet, hose, and all. He bore no + badge of mourning but a knot of purple ribbon on his shoulder. He + advanced hesitatingly, with head bowed and bare, and dropped upon one knee + in front of Tom. Tom sat still and contemplated him soberly a moment. + Then he said— + </p> + <p> + “Rise, lad. Who art thou. What wouldst have?” + </p> + <p> + The boy rose, and stood at graceful ease, but with an aspect of concern in + his face. He said— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link14-170" id="link14-170"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link14-170.jpg (101K)" src="images/14-170.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Of a surety thou must remember me, my lord. I am thy + whipping-boy.” + </p> + <p> + “My <i>whipping</i>-boy?” + </p> + <p> + “The same, your Grace. I am Humphrey—Humphrey Marlow.” + </p> + <p> + Tom perceived that here was someone whom his keepers ought to have posted + him about. The situation was delicate. What should he do?—pretend + he knew this lad, and then betray by his every utterance that he had never + heard of him before? No, that would not do. An idea came to + his relief: accidents like this might be likely to happen with some + frequency, now that business urgencies would often call Hertford and St. + John from his side, they being members of the Council of Executors; + therefore perhaps it would be well to strike out a plan himself to meet + the requirements of such emergencies. Yes, that would be a wise + course—he would practise on this boy, and see what sort of success + he might achieve. So he stroked his brow perplexedly a moment or + two, and presently said— + </p> + <p> + “Now I seem to remember thee somewhat—but my wit is clogged + and dim with suffering—” + </p> + <p> + “Alack, my poor master!” ejaculated the whipping-boy, with + feeling; adding, to himself, “In truth ’tis as they said—his + mind is gone—alas, poor soul! But misfortune catch me, how am + I forgetting! They said one must not seem to observe that aught is + wrong with him.” + </p> + <p> + “’Tis strange how my memory doth wanton with me these days,” + said Tom. “But mind it not—I mend apace—a little clue + doth often serve to bring me back again the things and names which had + escaped me. (And not they, only, forsooth, but e’en such as I + ne’er heard before—as this lad shall see.) Give thy + business speech.” + </p> + <p> + “’Tis matter of small weight, my liege, yet will I touch upon + it, an’ it please your Grace. Two days gone by, when your + Majesty faulted thrice in your Greek—in the morning lessons,—dost + remember it?” + </p> + <p> + “Y-e-s—methinks I do. (It is not much of a lie—an’ + I had meddled with the Greek at all, I had not faulted simply thrice, but + forty times.) Yes, I do recall it, now—go on.” + </p> + <p> + “The master, being wroth with what he termed such slovenly and + doltish work, did promise that he would soundly whip me for it—and—” + </p> + <p> + “Whip <i>thee</i>!” said Tom, astonished out of his presence + of mind. “Why should he whip <i>thee</i> for faults of mine?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, your Grace forgetteth again. He always scourgeth me when + thou dost fail in thy lessons.” + </p> + <p> + “True, true—I had forgot. Thou teachest me in private—then + if I fail, he argueth that thy office was lamely done, and—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, my liege, what words are these? I, the humblest of thy + servants, presume to teach <i>thee</i>?” + </p> + <p> + “Then where is thy blame? What riddle is this? Am I in + truth gone mad, or is it thou? Explain—speak out.” + </p> + <p> + “But, good your Majesty, there’s nought that needeth + simplifying.—None may visit the sacred person of the Prince of Wales + with blows; wherefore, when he faulteth, ’tis I that take them; and + meet it is and right, for that it is mine office and my livelihood.” + {1} + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link14-172" id="link14-172"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link14-172.jpg (84K)" src="images/14-172.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Tom stared at the tranquil boy, observing to himself, “Lo, it is a + wonderful thing,—a most strange and curious trade; I marvel they + have not hired a boy to take my combings and my dressings for me—would + heaven they would!—an’ they will do this thing, I will take my + lashings in mine own person, giving God thanks for the change.” Then + he said aloud— + </p> + <p> + “And hast thou been beaten, poor friend, according to the promise?” + </p> + <p> + “No, good your Majesty, my punishment was appointed for this day, + and peradventure it may be annulled, as unbefitting the season of mourning + that is come upon us; I know not, and so have made bold to come hither and + remind your Grace about your gracious promise to intercede in my behalf—” + </p> + <p> + “With the master? To save thee thy whipping?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, thou dost remember!” + </p> + <p> + “My memory mendeth, thou seest. Set thy mind at ease—thy + back shall go unscathed—I will see to it.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, thanks, my good lord!” cried the boy, dropping upon his + knee again. “Mayhap I have ventured far enow; and yet—” + </p> + <p> + Seeing Master Humphrey hesitate, Tom encouraged him to go on, saying he + was “in the granting mood.” + </p> + <p> + “Then will I speak it out, for it lieth near my heart. Sith + thou art no more Prince of Wales but King, thou canst order matters as + thou wilt, with none to say thee nay; wherefore it is not in reason that + thou wilt longer vex thyself with dreary studies, but wilt burn thy books + and turn thy mind to things less irksome. Then am I ruined, and mine + orphan sisters with me!” + </p> + <p> + “Ruined? Prithee how?” + </p> + <p> + “My back is my bread, O my gracious liege! if it go idle, I starve. + An’ thou cease from study mine office is gone thou’lt + need no whipping-boy. Do not turn me away!” + </p> + <p> + Tom was touched with this pathetic distress. He said, with a right + royal burst of generosity— + </p> + <p> + “Discomfort thyself no further, lad. Thine office shall be + permanent in thee and thy line for ever.” Then he struck the + boy a light blow on the shoulder with the flat of his sword, exclaiming, + “Rise, Humphrey Marlow, Hereditary Grand Whipping-Boy to the Royal + House of England! Banish sorrow—I will betake me to my books + again, and study so ill that they must in justice treble thy wage, so + mightily shall the business of thine office be augmented.” + </p> + <p> + The grateful Humphrey responded fervidly— + </p> + <p> + “Thanks, O most noble master, this princely lavishness doth far + surpass my most distempered dreams of fortune. Now shall I be happy + all my days, and all the house of Marlow after me.” + </p> + <p> + Tom had wit enough to perceive that here was a lad who could be useful to + him. He encouraged Humphrey to talk, and he was nothing loath. + He was delighted to believe that he was helping in Tom’s + ‘cure’; for always, as soon as he had finished calling back to + Tom’s diseased mind the various particulars of his experiences and + adventures in the royal school-room and elsewhere about the palace, he + noticed that Tom was then able to ‘recall’ the circumstances + quite clearly. At the end of an hour Tom found himself well + freighted with very valuable information concerning personages and matters + pertaining to the Court; so he resolved to draw instruction from this + source daily; and to this end he would give order to admit Humphrey to the + royal closet whenever he might come, provided the Majesty of England was + not engaged with other people. Humphrey had hardly been dismissed + when my Lord Hertford arrived with more trouble for Tom. + </p> + <p> + He said that the Lords of the Council, fearing that some overwrought + report of the King’s damaged health might have leaked out and got + abroad, they deemed it wise and best that his Majesty should begin to dine + in public after a day or two—his wholesome complexion and vigorous + step, assisted by a carefully guarded repose of manner and ease and grace + of demeanour, would more surely quiet the general pulse—in case any + evil rumours <i>had</i> gone about—than any other scheme that could + be devised. + </p> + <p> + Then the Earl proceeded, very delicately, to instruct Tom as to the + observances proper to the stately occasion, under the rather thin disguise + of ‘reminding’ him concerning things already known to him; but + to his vast gratification it turned out that Tom needed very little help + in this line—he had been making use of Humphrey in that direction, + for Humphrey had mentioned that within a few days he was to begin to dine + in public; having gathered it from the swift-winged gossip of the Court. + Tom kept these facts to himself, however. + </p> + <p> + Seeing the royal memory so improved, the Earl ventured to apply a few + tests to it, in an apparently casual way, to find out how far its + amendment had progressed. The results were happy, here and there, in + spots—spots where Humphrey’s tracks remained—and on the + whole my lord was greatly pleased and encouraged. So encouraged was + he, indeed, that he spoke up and said in a quite hopeful voice— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link14-175" id="link14-175"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link14-175.jpg (98K)" src="images/14-175.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Now am I persuaded that if your Majesty will but tax your memory + yet a little further, it will resolve the puzzle of the Great Seal—a + loss which was of moment yesterday, although of none to-day, since its + term of service ended with our late lord’s life. May it please your + Grace to make the trial?” + </p> + <p> + Tom was at sea—a Great Seal was something which he was totally + unacquainted with. After a moment’s hesitation he looked up + innocently and asked— + </p> + <p> + “What was it like, my lord?” + </p> + <p> + The Earl started, almost imperceptibly, muttering to himself, “Alack, + his wits are flown again!—it was ill wisdom to lead him on to strain + them”—then he deftly turned the talk to other matters, with + the purpose of sweeping the unlucky seal out of Tom’s thoughts—a + purpose which easily succeeded. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c15" id="c15"></a> <a + name="link15-177" id="link15-177"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link15-177.jpg (56K)" src="images/15-177.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XV. Tom as King. + </p> + <p> + The next day the foreign ambassadors came, with their gorgeous trains; and + Tom, throned in awful state, received them. The splendours of the + scene delighted his eye and fired his imagination at first, but the + audience was long and dreary, and so were most of the addresses—wherefore, + what began as a pleasure grew into weariness and home-sickness by-and-by. + Tom said the words which Hertford put into his mouth from time to + time, and tried hard to acquit himself satisfactorily, but he was too new + to such things, and too ill at ease to accomplish more than a tolerable + success. He looked sufficiently like a king, but he was ill able to + feel like one. He was cordially glad when the ceremony was ended. + </p> + <p> + The larger part of his day was ‘wasted’—as he termed it, + in his own mind—in labours pertaining to his royal office. Even + the two hours devoted to certain princely pastimes and recreations were + rather a burden to him than otherwise, they were so fettered by + restrictions and ceremonious observances. However, he had a private + hour with his whipping-boy which he counted clear gain, since he got both + entertainment and needful information out of it. + </p> + <p> + The third day of Tom Canty’s kingship came and went much as the + others had done, but there was a lifting of his cloud in one way—he + felt less uncomfortable than at first; he was getting a little used to his + circumstances and surroundings; his chains still galled, but not all the + time; he found that the presence and homage of the great afflicted and + embarrassed him less and less sharply with every hour that drifted over + his head. + </p> + <p> + But for one single dread, he could have seen the fourth day approach + without serious distress—the dining in public; it was to begin that + day. There were greater matters in the programme—for on that day he + would have to preside at a council which would take his views and commands + concerning the policy to be pursued toward various foreign nations + scattered far and near over the great globe; on that day, too, Hertford + would be formally chosen to the grand office of Lord Protector; other + things of note were appointed for that fourth day, also; but to Tom they + were all insignificant compared with the ordeal of dining all by himself + with a multitude of curious eyes fastened upon him and a multitude of + mouths whispering comments upon his performance,—and upon his + mistakes, if he should be so unlucky as to make any. + </p> + <p> + Still, nothing could stop that fourth day, and so it came. It found + poor Tom low-spirited and absent-minded, and this mood continued; he could + not shake it off. The ordinary duties of the morning dragged upon + his hands, and wearied him. Once more he felt the sense of captivity + heavy upon him. + </p> + <p> + Late in the forenoon he was in a large audience-chamber, conversing with + the Earl of Hertford and dully awaiting the striking of the hour appointed + for a visit of ceremony from a considerable number of great officials and + courtiers. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link15-181" id="link15-181"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link15-181.jpg (53K)" src="images/15-181.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + After a little while, Tom, who had wandered to a window and become + interested in the life and movement of the great highway beyond the palace + gates—and not idly interested, but longing with all his heart to + take part in person in its stir and freedom—saw the van of a hooting + and shouting mob of disorderly men, women, and children of the lowest and + poorest degree approaching from up the road. + </p> + <p> + “I would I knew what ’tis about!” he exclaimed, with all + a boy’s curiosity in such happenings. + </p> + <p> + “Thou art the King!” solemnly responded the Earl, with a + reverence. “Have I your Grace’s leave to act?” + </p> + <p> + “O blithely, yes! O gladly, yes!” exclaimed Tom + excitedly, adding to himself with a lively sense of satisfaction, “In + truth, being a king is not all dreariness—it hath its compensations + and conveniences.” + </p> + <p> + The Earl called a page, and sent him to the captain of the guard with the + order— + </p> + <p> + “Let the mob be halted, and inquiry made concerning the occasion of + its movement. By the King’s command!” + </p> + <p> + A few seconds later a long rank of the royal guards, cased in flashing + steel, filed out at the gates and formed across the highway in front of + the multitude. A messenger returned, to report that the crowd were + following a man, a woman, and a young girl to execution for crimes + committed against the peace and dignity of the realm. + </p> + <p> + Death—and a violent death—for these poor unfortunates! The + thought wrung Tom’s heart-strings. The spirit of compassion + took control of him, to the exclusion of all other considerations; he + never thought of the offended laws, or of the grief or loss which these + three criminals had inflicted upon their victims; he could think of + nothing but the scaffold and the grisly fate hanging over the heads of the + condemned. His concern made him even forget, for the moment, that he + was but the false shadow of a king, not the substance; and before he knew + it he had blurted out the command— + </p> + <p> + “Bring them here!” + </p> + <p> + Then he blushed scarlet, and a sort of apology sprung to his lips; but + observing that his order had wrought no sort of surprise in the Earl or + the waiting page, he suppressed the words he was about to utter. The + page, in the most matter-of-course way, made a profound obeisance and + retired backwards out of the room to deliver the command. Tom + experienced a glow of pride and a renewed sense of the compensating + advantages of the kingly office. He said to himself, “Truly it is + like what I was used to feel when I read the old priest’s tales, and + did imagine mine own self a prince, giving law and command to all, saying + ‘Do this, do that,’ whilst none durst offer let or hindrance + to my will.” + </p> + <p> + Now the doors swung open; one high-sounding title after another was + announced, the personages owning them followed, and the place was quickly + half-filled with noble folk and finery. But Tom was hardly conscious + of the presence of these people, so wrought up was he and so intensely + absorbed in that other and more interesting matter. He seated + himself absently in his chair of state, and turned his eyes upon the door + with manifestations of impatient expectancy; seeing which, the company + forbore to trouble him, and fell to chatting a mixture of public business + and court gossip one with another. + </p> + <p> + In a little while the measured tread of military men was heard + approaching, and the culprits entered the presence in charge of an + under-sheriff and escorted by a detail of the king’s guard. The + civil officer knelt before Tom, then stood aside; the three doomed persons + knelt, also, and remained so; the guard took position behind Tom’s + chair. Tom scanned the prisoners curiously. Something about the + dress or appearance of the man had stirred a vague memory in him. "Methinks + I have seen this man ere now . . . but the when or the where fail me.”—Such + was Tom’s thought. Just then the man glanced quickly up and quickly + dropped his face again, not being able to endure the awful port of + sovereignty; but the one full glimpse of the face which Tom got was + sufficient. He said to himself: “Now is the matter clear; this + is the stranger that plucked Giles Witt out of the Thames, and saved his + life, that windy, bitter, first day of the New Year—a brave good + deed—pity he hath been doing baser ones and got himself in this sad + case . . . I have not forgot the day, neither the hour; by reason that an + hour after, upon the stroke of eleven, I did get a hiding by the hand of + Gammer Canty which was of so goodly and admired severity that all that + went before or followed after it were but fondlings and caresses by + comparison.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link15-183" id="link15-183"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link15-183.jpg (176K)" src="images/15-183.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Tom now ordered that the woman and the girl be removed from the presence + for a little time; then addressed himself to the under-sheriff, saying— + </p> + <p> + “Good sir, what is this man’s offence?” + </p> + <p> + The officer knelt, and answered— + </p> + <p> + “So please your Majesty, he hath taken the life of a subject by + poison.” + </p> + <p> + Tom’s compassion for the prisoner, and admiration of him as the + daring rescuer of a drowning boy, experienced a most damaging shock. + </p> + <p> + “The thing was proven upon him?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Most clearly, sire.” + </p> + <p> + Tom sighed, and said— + </p> + <p> + “Take him away—he hath earned his death. ’Tis a + pity, for he was a brave heart—na—na, I mean he hath the <i>look</i> + of it!” + </p> + <p> + The prisoner clasped his hands together with sudden energy, and wrung them + despairingly, at the same time appealing imploringly to the ‘King’ + in broken and terrified phrases— + </p> + <p> + “O my lord the King, an’ thou canst pity the lost, have pity + upon me! I am innocent—neither hath that wherewith I am + charged been more than but lamely proved—yet I speak not of that; + the judgment is gone forth against me and may not suffer alteration; yet + in mine extremity I beg a boon, for my doom is more than I can bear. A + grace, a grace, my lord the King! in thy royal compassion grant my prayer—give + commandment that I be hanged!” + </p> + <p> + Tom was amazed. This was not the outcome he had looked for. + </p> + <p> + “Odds my life, a strange <i>boon</i>! Was it not the fate + intended thee?” + </p> + <p> + “O good my liege, not so! It is ordered that I be <i>boiled + alive</i>!” + </p> + <p> + The hideous surprise of these words almost made Tom spring from his chair. + As soon as he could recover his wits he cried out— + </p> + <p> + “Have thy wish, poor soul! an’ thou had poisoned a hundred men + thou shouldst not suffer so miserable a death.” + </p> + <p> + The prisoner bowed his face to the ground and burst into passionate + expressions of gratitude—ending with— + </p> + <p> + “If ever thou shouldst know misfortune—which God forefend!—may + thy goodness to me this day be remembered and requited!” + </p> + <p> + Tom turned to the Earl of Hertford, and said— + </p> + <p> + “My lord, is it believable that there was warrant for this man’s + ferocious doom?” + </p> + <p> + “It is the law, your Grace—for poisoners. In Germany + coiners be boiled to death in <i>oil</i>—not cast in of a sudden, + but by a rope let down into the oil by degrees, and slowly; first the + feet, then the legs, then—” + </p> + <p> + “O prithee no more, my lord, I cannot bear it!” cried Tom, + covering his eyes with his hands to shut out the picture. "I beseech + your good lordship that order be taken to change this law—oh, let no + more poor creatures be visited with its tortures.” + </p> + <p> + The Earl’s face showed profound gratification, for he was a man of + merciful and generous impulses—a thing not very common with his + class in that fierce age. He said— + </p> + <p> + “These your Grace’s noble words have sealed its doom. History + will remember it to the honour of your royal house.” + </p> + <p> + The under-sheriff was about to remove his prisoner; Tom gave him a sign to + wait; then he said— + </p> + <p> + “Good sir, I would look into this matter further. The man has + said his deed was but lamely proved. Tell me what thou knowest.” + </p> + <p> + “If the King’s grace please, it did appear upon the trial that + this man entered into a house in the hamlet of Islington where one lay + sick—three witnesses say it was at ten of the clock in the morning, + and two say it was some minutes later—the sick man being alone at + the time, and sleeping—and presently the man came forth again and + went his way. The sick man died within the hour, being torn with + spasms and retchings.” + </p> + <p> + “Did any see the poison given? Was poison found?” + </p> + <p> + “Marry, no, my liege.” + </p> + <p> + “Then how doth one know there was poison given at all?” + </p> + <p> + “Please your Majesty, the doctors testified that none die with such + symptoms but by poison.” + </p> + <p> + Weighty evidence, this, in that simple age. Tom recognised its + formidable nature, and said— + </p> + <p> + “The doctor knoweth his trade—belike they were right. The + matter hath an ill-look for this poor man.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet was not this all, your Majesty; there is more and worse. Many + testified that a witch, since gone from the village, none know whither, + did foretell, and speak it privately in their ears, that the sick man <i>would + die by poison</i>—and more, that a stranger would give it—a + stranger with brown hair and clothed in a worn and common garb; and surely + this prisoner doth answer woundily to the bill. Please your Majesty + to give the circumstance that solemn weight which is its due, seeing it + was <i>foretold</i>.” + </p> + <p> + This was an argument of tremendous force in that superstitious day. Tom + felt that the thing was settled; if evidence was worth anything, this poor + fellow’s guilt was proved. Still he offered the prisoner a + chance, saying— + </p> + <p> + “If thou canst say aught in thy behalf, speak.” + </p> + <p> + “Nought that will avail, my King. I am innocent, yet cannot I + make it appear. I have no friends, else might I show that I was not + in Islington that day; so also might I show that at that hour they name I + was above a league away, seeing I was at Wapping Old Stairs; yea more, my + King, for I could show, that whilst they say I was <i>taking</i> life, I + was <i>saving</i> it. A drowning boy—” + </p> + <p> + “Peace! Sheriff, name the day the deed was done!” + </p> + <p> + “At ten in the morning, or some minutes later, the first day of the + New Year, most illustrious—” + </p> + <p> + “Let the prisoner go free—it is the King’s will!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link15-187" id="link15-187"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link15-187.jpg (170K)" src="images/15-187.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Another blush followed this unregal outburst, and he covered his indecorum + as well as he could by adding— + </p> + <p> + “It enrageth me that a man should be hanged upon such idle, + hare-brained evidence!” + </p> + <p> + A low buzz of admiration swept through the assemblage. It was not + admiration of the decree that had been delivered by Tom, for the propriety + or expediency of pardoning a convicted poisoner was a thing which few + there would have felt justified in either admitting or admiring—no, + the admiration was for the intelligence and spirit which Tom had + displayed. Some of the low-voiced remarks were to this effect— + </p> + <p> + “This is no mad king—he hath his wits sound.” + </p> + <p> + “How sanely he put his questions—how like his former natural + self was this abrupt imperious disposal of the matter!” + </p> + <p> + “God be thanked, his infirmity is spent! This is no weakling, + but a king. He hath borne himself like to his own father.” + </p> + <p> + The air being filled with applause, Tom’s ear necessarily caught a + little of it. The effect which this had upon him was to put him + greatly at his ease, and also to charge his system with very gratifying + sensations. + </p> + <p> + However, his juvenile curiosity soon rose superior to these pleasant + thoughts and feelings; he was eager to know what sort of deadly mischief + the woman and the little girl could have been about; so, by his command, + the two terrified and sobbing creatures were brought before him. + </p> + <p> + “What is it that these have done?” he inquired of the sheriff. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link15-188" id="link15-188"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link15-188.jpg (27K)" src="images/15-188.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Please your Majesty, a black crime is charged upon them, and + clearly proven; wherefore the judges have decreed, according to the law, + that they be hanged. They sold themselves to the devil—such is + their crime.” + </p> + <p> + Tom shuddered. He had been taught to abhor people who did this + wicked thing. Still, he was not going to deny himself the pleasure + of feeding his curiosity for all that; so he asked— + </p> + <p> + “Where was this done?—and when?” + </p> + <p> + “On a midnight in December, in a ruined church, your Majesty.” + </p> + <p> + Tom shuddered again. + </p> + <p> + “Who was there present?” + </p> + <p> + “Only these two, your grace—and <i>that other</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “Have these confessed?” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, not so, sire—they do deny it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then prithee, how was it known?” + </p> + <p> + “Certain witness did see them wending thither, good your Majesty; + this bred the suspicion, and dire effects have since confirmed and + justified it. In particular, it is in evidence that through the + wicked power so obtained, they did invoke and bring about a storm that + wasted all the region round about. Above forty witnesses have proved + the storm; and sooth one might have had a thousand, for all had reason to + remember it, sith all had suffered by it.” + </p> + <p> + “Certes this is a serious matter.” Tom turned this dark + piece of scoundrelism over in his mind a while, then asked— + </p> + <p> + “Suffered the woman also by the storm?” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link15-190" id="link15-190"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link15-190.jpg (69K)" src="images/15-190.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Several old heads among the assemblage nodded their recognition of the + wisdom of this question. The sheriff, however, saw nothing + consequential in the inquiry; he answered, with simple directness— + </p> + <p> + “Indeed did she, your Majesty, and most righteously, as all aver. + Her habitation was swept away, and herself and child left shelterless.” + </p> + <p> + “Methinks the power to do herself so ill a turn was dearly bought. + She had been cheated, had she paid but a farthing for it; that she paid + her soul, and her child’s, argueth that she is mad; if she is mad + she knoweth not what she doth, therefore sinneth not.” + </p> + <p> + The elderly heads nodded recognition of Tom’s wisdom once more, and + one individual murmured, “An’ the King be mad himself, + according to report, then is it a madness of a sort that would improve the + sanity of some I wot of, if by the gentle providence of God they could but + catch it.” + </p> + <p> + “What age hath the child?” asked Tom. + </p> + <p> + “Nine years, please your Majesty.” + </p> + <p> + “By the law of England may a child enter into covenant and sell + itself, my lord?” asked Tom, turning to a learned judge. + </p> + <p> + “The law doth not permit a child to make or meddle in any weighty + matter, good my liege, holding that its callow wit unfitteth it to cope + with the riper wit and evil schemings of them that are its elders. The + <i>Devil</i> may buy a child, if he so choose, and the child agree + thereto, but not an Englishman—in this latter case the contract + would be null and void.” + </p> + <p> + “It seemeth a rude unchristian thing, and ill contrived, that + English law denieth privileges to Englishmen to waste them on the devil!” + cried Tom, with honest heat. + </p> + <p> + This novel view of the matter excited many smiles, and was stored away in + many heads to be repeated about the Court as evidence of Tom’s + originality as well as progress toward mental health. + </p> + <p> + The elder culprit had ceased from sobbing, and was hanging upon Tom’s + words with an excited interest and a growing hope. Tom noticed this, + and it strongly inclined his sympathies toward her in her perilous and + unfriended situation. Presently he asked— + </p> + <p> + “How wrought they to bring the storm?” + </p> + <p> + “<i>By pulling off their stockings</i>, sire.” + </p> + <p> + This astonished Tom, and also fired his curiosity to fever heat. He said, + eagerly— + </p> + <p> + “It is wonderful! Hath it always this dread effect?” + </p> + <p> + “Always, my liege—at least if the woman desire it, and utter + the needful words, either in her mind or with her tongue.” + </p> + <p> + Tom turned to the woman, and said with impetuous zeal— + </p> + <p> + “Exert thy power—I would see a storm!” + </p> + <p> + There was a sudden paling of cheeks in the superstitious assemblage, and a + general, though unexpressed, desire to get out of the place—all of + which was lost upon Tom, who was dead to everything but the proposed + cataclysm. Seeing a puzzled and astonished look in the woman’s + face, he added, excitedly— + </p> + <p> + “Never fear—thou shalt be blameless. More—thou + shalt go free—none shall touch thee. Exert thy power.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, my lord the King, I have it not—I have been falsely + accused.” + </p> + <p> + “Thy fears stay thee. Be of good heart, thou shalt suffer no + harm. Make a storm—it mattereth not how small a one—I + require nought great or harmful, but indeed prefer the opposite—do + this and thy life is spared—thou shalt go out free, with thy child, + bearing the King’s pardon, and safe from hurt or malice from any in + the realm.” + </p> + <p> + The woman prostrated herself, and protested, with tears, that she had no + power to do the miracle, else she would gladly win her child’s life + alone, and be content to lose her own, if by obedience to the King’s + command so precious a grace might be acquired. + </p> + <p> + Tom urged—the woman still adhered to her declarations. Finally + he said— + </p> + <p> + “I think the woman hath said true. An’ <i>my</i> mother + were in her place and gifted with the devil’s functions, she had not + stayed a moment to call her storms and lay the whole land in ruins, if the + saving of my forfeit life were the price she got! It is argument + that other mothers are made in like mould. Thou art free, goodwife—thou + and thy child—for I do think thee innocent. <i>Now</i> thou’st + nought to fear, being pardoned—pull off thy stockings!—an’ + thou canst make me a storm, thou shalt be rich!” + </p> + <p> + The redeemed creature was loud in her gratitude, and proceeded to obey, + whilst Tom looked on with eager expectancy, a little marred by + apprehension; the courtiers at the same time manifesting decided + discomfort and uneasiness. The woman stripped her own feet and her + little girl’s also, and plainly did her best to reward the King’s + generosity with an earthquake, but it was all a failure and a + disappointment. Tom sighed, and said— + </p> + <p> + “There, good soul, trouble thyself no further, thy power is departed + out of thee. Go thy way in peace; and if it return to thee at any + time, forget me not, but fetch me a storm.” {13} + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c16" id="c16"></a> <a + name="link16-193" id="link16-193"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link16-193.jpg (42K)" src="images/16-193.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XVI. The State Dinner. + </p> + <p> + The dinner hour drew near—yet strangely enough, the thought brought + but slight discomfort to Tom, and hardly any terror. The morning’s + experiences had wonderfully built up his confidence; the poor little + ash-cat was already more wonted to his strange garret, after four days’ + habit, than a mature person could have become in a full month. A + child’s facility in accommodating itself to circumstances was never + more strikingly illustrated. + </p> + <p> + Let us privileged ones hurry to the great banqueting-room and have a + glance at matters there whilst Tom is being made ready for the imposing + occasion. It is a spacious apartment, with gilded pillars and + pilasters, and pictured walls and ceilings. At the door stand tall + guards, as rigid as statues, dressed in rich and picturesque costumes, and + bearing halberds. In a high gallery which runs all around the place + is a band of musicians and a packed company of citizens of both sexes, in + brilliant attire. In the centre of the room, upon a raised platform, + is Tom’s table. Now let the ancient chronicler speak: + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link16-196" id="link16-196"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link16-196.jpg (65K)" src="images/16-196.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “A gentleman enters the room bearing a rod, and along with him + another bearing a tablecloth, which, after they have both kneeled three + times with the utmost veneration, he spreads upon the table, and after + kneeling again they both retire; then come two others, one with the rod + again, the other with a salt-cellar, a plate, and bread; when they have + kneeled as the others had done, and placed what was brought upon the + table, they too retire with the same ceremonies performed by the first; at + last come two nobles, richly clothed, one bearing a tasting-knife, who, + after prostrating themselves three times in the most graceful manner, + approach and rub the table with bread and salt, with as much awe as if the + King had been present.” {6} + </p> + <p> + So end the solemn preliminaries. Now, far down the echoing corridors + we hear a bugle-blast, and the indistinct cry, “Place for the King! + Way for the King’s most excellent majesty!” These + sounds are momently repeated—they grow nearer and nearer—and + presently, almost in our faces, the martial note peals and the cry rings + out, “Way for the King!” At this instant the shining + pageant appears, and files in at the door, with a measured march. Let the + chronicler speak again:— + </p> + <p> + “First come Gentlemen, Barons, Earls, Knights of the Garter, all + richly dressed and bareheaded; next comes the Chancellor, between two, one + of which carries the royal sceptre, the other the Sword of State in a red + scabbard, studded with golden fleurs-de-lis, the point upwards; next comes + the King himself—whom, upon his appearing, twelve trumpets and many + drums salute with a great burst of welcome, whilst all in the galleries + rise in their places, crying ‘God save the King!’ After + him come nobles attached to his person, and on his right and left march + his guard of honour, his fifty Gentlemen Pensioners, with gilt + battle-axes.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link16-197" id="link16-197"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link16-197.jpg (183K)" src="images/16-197.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + This was all fine and pleasant. Tom’s pulse beat high, and a + glad light was in his eye. He bore himself right gracefully, and all + the more so because he was not thinking of how he was doing it, his mind + being charmed and occupied with the blithe sights and sounds about him—and + besides, nobody can be very ungraceful in nicely-fitting beautiful clothes + after he has grown a little used to them—especially if he is for the + moment unconscious of them. Tom remembered his instructions, and + acknowledged his greeting with a slight inclination of his plumed head, + and a courteous “I thank ye, my good people.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link16-198" id="link16-198"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link16-198.jpg (43K)" src="images/16-198.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + He seated himself at table, without removing his cap; and did it without + the least embarrassment; for to eat with one’s cap on was the one + solitary royal custom upon which the kings and the Cantys met upon common + ground, neither party having any advantage over the other in the matter of + old familiarity with it. The pageant broke up and grouped itself + picturesquely, and remained bareheaded. + </p> + <p> + Now to the sound of gay music the Yeomen of the Guard entered,—“the + tallest and mightiest men in England, they being carefully selected in + this regard”—but we will let the chronicler tell about it:— + </p> + <p> + “The Yeomen of the Guard entered, bareheaded, clothed in scarlet, + with golden roses upon their backs; and these went and came, bringing in + each turn a course of dishes, served in plate. These dishes were + received by a gentleman in the same order they were brought, and placed + upon the table, while the taster gave to each guard a mouthful to eat of + the particular dish he had brought, for fear of any poison.” + </p> + <p> + Tom made a good dinner, notwithstanding he was conscious that hundreds of + eyes followed each morsel to his mouth and watched him eat it with an + interest which could not have been more intense if it had been a deadly + explosive and was expected to blow him up and scatter him all about the + place. He was careful not to hurry, and equally careful not to do + anything whatever for himself, but wait till the proper official knelt + down and did it for him. He got through without a mistake—flawless + and precious triumph. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link16-199" id="link16-199"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link16-199.jpg (99K)" src="images/16-199.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + When the meal was over at last and he marched away in the midst of his + bright pageant, with the happy noises in his ears of blaring bugles, + rolling drums, and thundering acclamations, he felt that if he had seen + the worst of dining in public it was an ordeal which he would be glad to + endure several times a day if by that means he could but buy himself free + from some of the more formidable requirements of his royal office. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c17" id="c17"></a> <a + name="link17-201" id="link17-201"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link17-201.jpg (70K)" src="images/17-201.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XVII. Foo-foo the First. + </p> + <p> + Miles Hendon hurried along toward the Southwark end of the bridge, keeping + a sharp look-out for the persons he sought, and hoping and expecting to + overtake them presently. He was disappointed in this, however. + By asking questions, he was enabled to track them part of the way + through Southwark; then all traces ceased, and he was perplexed as to how + to proceed. Still, he continued his efforts as best he could during + the rest of the day. Nightfall found him leg-weary, half-famished, + and his desire as far from accomplishment as ever; so he supped at the + Tabard Inn and went to bed, resolved to make an early start in the + morning, and give the town an exhaustive search. As he lay thinking + and planning, he presently began to reason thus: The boy would + escape from the ruffian, his reputed father, if possible; would he go back + to London and seek his former haunts? No, he would not do that, he + would avoid recapture. What, then, would he do? Never having had a + friend in the world, or a protector, until he met Miles Hendon, he would + naturally try to find that friend again, provided the effort did not + require him to go toward London and danger. He would strike for + Hendon Hall, that is what he would do, for he knew Hendon was homeward + bound and there he might expect to find him. Yes, the case was plain + to Hendon—he must lose no more time in Southwark, but move at once + through Kent, toward Monk’s Holm, searching the wood and inquiring + as he went. Let us return to the vanished little King now. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link17-205" id="link17-205"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link17-205.jpg (159K)" src="images/17-205.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The ruffian whom the waiter at the inn on the bridge saw ‘about to + join’ the youth and the King did not exactly join them, but fell in + close behind them and followed their steps. He said nothing. His + left arm was in a sling, and he wore a large green patch over his left + eye; he limped slightly, and used an oaken staff as a support. The + youth led the King a crooked course through Southwark, and by-and-by + struck into the high road beyond. The King was irritated, now, and + said he would stop here—it was Hendon’s place to come to him, + not his to go to Hendon. He would not endure such insolence; he + would stop where he was. The youth said— + </p> + <p> + “Thou’lt tarry here, and thy friend lying wounded in the wood + yonder? So be it, then.” + </p> + <p> + The King’s manner changed at once. He cried out— + </p> + <p> + “Wounded? And who hath dared to do it? But that is + apart; lead on, lead on! Faster, sirrah! Art shod with lead? + Wounded, is he? Now though the doer of it be a duke’s + son he shall rue it!” + </p> + <p> + It was some distance to the wood, but the space was speedily traversed. + The youth looked about him, discovered a bough sticking in the ground, + with a small bit of rag tied to it, then led the way into the forest, + watching for similar boughs and finding them at intervals; they were + evidently guides to the point he was aiming at. By-and-by an open + place was reached, where were the charred remains of a farm-house, and + near them a barn which was falling to ruin and decay. There was no + sign of life anywhere, and utter silence prevailed. The youth + entered the barn, the King following eagerly upon his heels. No one + there! The King shot a surprised and suspicious glance at the youth, and + asked— + </p> + <p> + “Where is he?” + </p> + <p> + A mocking laugh was his answer. The King was in a rage in a moment; + he seized a billet of wood and was in the act of charging upon the youth + when another mocking laugh fell upon his ear. It was from the lame + ruffian who had been following at a distance. The King turned and said + angrily— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link17-206" id="link17-206"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link17-206.jpg (110K)" src="images/17-206.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Who art thou? What is thy business here?” + </p> + <p> + “Leave thy foolery,” said the man, “and quiet thyself. + My disguise is none so good that thou canst pretend thou knowest not + thy father through it.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou art not my father. I know thee not. I am the King. + If thou hast hid my servant, find him for me, or thou shalt sup + sorrow for what thou hast done.” + </p> + <p> + John Canty replied, in a stern and measured voice— + </p> + <p> + “It is plain thou art mad, and I am loath to punish thee; but + if thou provoke me, I must. Thy prating doth no harm here, where + there are no ears that need to mind thy follies; yet it is well to + practise thy tongue to wary speech, that it may do no hurt when our + quarters change. I have done a murder, and may not tarry at home—neither + shalt thou, seeing I need thy service. My name is changed, for wise + reasons; it is Hobbs—John Hobbs; thine is Jack—charge thy + memory accordingly. Now, then, speak. Where is thy mother? + Where are thy sisters? They came not to the place appointed—knowest + thou whither they went?” + </p> + <p> + The King answered sullenly— + </p> + <p> + “Trouble me not with these riddles. My mother is dead; my + sisters are in the palace.” + </p> + <p> + The youth near by burst into a derisive laugh, and the King would have + assaulted him, but Canty—or Hobbs, as he now called himself—prevented + him, and said— + </p> + <p> + “Peace, Hugo, vex him not; his mind is astray, and thy ways fret + him. Sit thee down, Jack, and quiet thyself; thou shalt have a morsel to + eat, anon.” + </p> + <p> + Hobbs and Hugo fell to talking together, in low voices, and the King + removed himself as far as he could from their disagreeable company. He + withdrew into the twilight of the farther end of the barn, where he found + the earthen floor bedded a foot deep with straw. He lay down here, + drew straw over himself in lieu of blankets, and was soon absorbed in + thinking. He had many griefs, but the minor ones were swept almost + into forgetfulness by the supreme one, the loss of his father. To + the rest of the world the name of Henry VIII. brought a shiver, and + suggested an ogre whose nostrils breathed destruction and whose hand dealt + scourgings and death; but to this boy the name brought only sensations of + pleasure; the figure it invoked wore a countenance that was all gentleness + and affection. He called to mind a long succession of loving + passages between his father and himself, and dwelt fondly upon them, his + unstinted tears attesting how deep and real was the grief that possessed + his heart. As the afternoon wasted away, the lad, wearied with his + troubles, sank gradually into a tranquil and healing slumber. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link17-207" id="link17-207"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link17-207.jpg (74K)" src="images/17-207.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + After a considerable time—he could not tell how long—his + senses struggled to a half-consciousness, and as he lay with closed eyes + vaguely wondering where he was and what had been happening, he noted a + murmurous sound, the sullen beating of rain upon the roof. A snug sense of + comfort stole over him, which was rudely broken, the next moment, by a + chorus of piping cackles and coarse laughter. It startled him + disagreeably, and he unmuffled his head to see whence this interruption + proceeded. A grim and unsightly picture met his eye. A bright + fire was burning in the middle of the floor, at the other end of the barn; + and around it, and lit weirdly up by the red glare, lolled and sprawled + the motliest company of tattered gutter-scum and ruffians, of both sexes, + he had ever read or dreamed of. There were huge stalwart men, brown + with exposure, long-haired, and clothed in fantastic rags; there were + middle-sized youths, of truculent countenance, and similarly clad; there + were blind mendicants, with patched or bandaged eyes; crippled ones, with + wooden legs and crutches; diseased ones, with running sores peeping from + ineffectual wrappings; there was a villain-looking pedlar with his pack; a + knife-grinder, a tinker, and a barber-surgeon, with the implements of + their trades; some of the females were hardly-grown girls, some were at + prime, some were old and wrinkled hags, and all were loud, brazen, + foul-mouthed; and all soiled and slatternly; there were three sore-faced + babies; there were a couple of starveling curs, with strings about their + necks, whose office was to lead the blind. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link17-208" id="link17-208"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link17-208.jpg (160K)" src="images/17-208.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The night was come, the gang had just finished feasting, an orgy was + beginning; the can of liquor was passing from mouth to mouth. A general + cry broke forth— + </p> + <p> + “A song! a song from the Bat and Dick and Dot-and-go-One!” + </p> + <p> + One of the blind men got up, and made ready by casting aside the patches + that sheltered his excellent eyes, and the pathetic placard which recited + the cause of his calamity. Dot-and-go-One disencumbered himself of + his timber leg and took his place, upon sound and healthy limbs, beside + his fellow-rascal; then they roared out a rollicking ditty, and were + reinforced by the whole crew, at the end of each stanza, in a rousing + chorus. By the time the last stanza was reached, the half-drunken + enthusiasm had risen to such a pitch, that everybody joined in and sang it + clear through from the beginning, producing a volume of villainous sound + that made the rafters quake. These were the inspiring words:— + </p> + <p> + ‘Bien Darkman’s then, Bouse Mort and Ken,<br /> The bien Coves + bings awast,<br /> On Chates to trine by Rome Coves dine<br /> For his long + lib at last.<br /> Bing’d out bien Morts and toure, and toure,<br /> + Bing out of the Rome vile bine,<br /> And toure the Cove that cloy’d + your duds,<br /> Upon the Chates to trine.‘<br /><br /> (From’The + English Rogue.’ London, 1665.) + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link17-210" id="link17-210"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link17-210.jpg (63K)" src="images/17-210.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Conversation followed; not in the thieves’ dialect of the song, for + that was only used in talk when unfriendly ears might be listening. In + the course of it, it appeared that ‘John Hobbs’ was not + altogether a new recruit, but had trained in the gang at some former time. + His later history was called for, and when he said he had ‘accidentally’ + killed a man, considerable satisfaction was expressed; when he added that + the man was a priest, he was roundly applauded, and had to take a drink + with everybody. Old acquaintances welcomed him joyously, and new + ones were proud to shake him by the hand. He was asked why he had + ’tarried away so many months.’ He answered— + </p> + <p> + “London is better than the country, and safer, these late years, the + laws be so bitter and so diligently enforced. An’ I had not + had that accident, I had stayed there. I had resolved to stay, and + never more venture country-wards—but the accident has ended that.” + </p> + <p> + He inquired how many persons the gang numbered now. The ‘ruffler,’ + or chief, answered— + </p> + <p> + “Five and twenty sturdy budges, bulks, files, clapperdogeons and + maunders, counting the dells and doxies and other morts. {7} Most + are here, the rest are wandering eastward, along the winter lay. We follow + at dawn.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not see the Wen among the honest folk about me. Where + may he be?” + </p> + <p> + “Poor lad, his diet is brimstone, now, and over hot for a delicate + taste. He was killed in a brawl, somewhere about midsummer.” + </p> + <p> + “I sorrow to hear that; the Wen was a capable man, and brave.” + </p> + <p> + “That was he, truly. Black Bess, his dell, is of us yet, but + absent on the eastward tramp; a fine lass, of nice ways and orderly + conduct, none ever seeing her drunk above four days in the seven.” + </p> + <p> + “She was ever strict—I remember it well—a goodly wench + and worthy all commendation. Her mother was more free and less + particular; a troublesome and ugly-tempered beldame, but furnished with a + wit above the common.” + </p> + <p> + “We lost her through it. Her gift of palmistry and other sorts + of fortune-telling begot for her at last a witch’s name and fame. + The law roasted her to death at a slow fire. It did touch me to a + sort of tenderness to see the gallant way she met her lot—cursing + and reviling all the crowd that gaped and gazed around her, whilst the + flames licked upward toward her face and catched her thin locks and + crackled about her old gray head—cursing them! why an’ thou + should’st live a thousand years thoud’st never hear so + masterful a cursing. Alack, her art died with her. There be + base and weakling imitations left, but no true blasphemy.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link17-212" id="link17-212"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link17-212.jpg (44K)" src="images/17-212.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The Ruffler sighed; the listeners sighed in sympathy; a general depression + fell upon the company for a moment, for even hardened outcasts like these + are not wholly dead to sentiment, but are able to feel a fleeting sense of + loss and affliction at wide intervals and under peculiarly favouring + circumstances—as in cases like to this, for instance, when genius + and culture depart and leave no heir. However, a deep drink all + round soon restored the spirits of the mourners. + </p> + <p> + “Have any others of our friends fared hardly?” asked Hobbs. + </p> + <p> + “Some—yes. Particularly new comers—such as small + husbandmen turned shiftless and hungry upon the world because their farms + were taken from them to be changed to sheep ranges. They begged, and + were whipped at the cart’s tail, naked from the girdle up, till the + blood ran; then set in the stocks to be pelted; they begged again, were + whipped again, and deprived of an ear; they begged a third time—poor + devils, what else could they do?—and were branded on the cheek with + a red-hot iron, then sold for slaves; they ran away, were hunted down, and + hanged. ’Tis a brief tale, and quickly told. Others of + us have fared less hardly. Stand forth, Yokel, Burns, and Hodge—show + your adornments!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link17-213" id="link17-213"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link17-213.jpg (125K)" src="images/17-213.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + These stood up and stripped away some of their rags, exposing their backs, + criss-crossed with ropy old welts left by the lash; one turned up his hair + and showed the place where a left ear had once been; another showed a + brand upon his shoulder—the letter V—and a mutilated ear; the + third said— + </p> + <p> + “I am Yokel, once a farmer and prosperous, with loving wife and kids—now + am I somewhat different in estate and calling; and the wife and kids are + gone; mayhap they are in heaven, mayhap in—in the other place—but + the kindly God be thanked, they bide no more in <i>England</i>! My + good old blameless mother strove to earn bread by nursing the sick; one of + these died, the doctors knew not how, so my mother was burnt for a witch, + whilst my babes looked on and wailed. English law!—up, all, + with your cups!—now all together and with a cheer!—drink to + the merciful English law that delivered <i>her</i> from the English hell! + Thank you, mates, one and all. I begged, from house to house—I + and the wife—bearing with us the hungry kids—but it was crime + to be hungry in England—so they stripped us and lashed us through + three towns. Drink ye all again to the merciful English law!—for + its lash drank deep of my Mary’s blood and its blessed deliverance + came quick. She lies there, in the potter’s field, safe from + all harms. And the kids—well, whilst the law lashed me from + town to town, they starved. Drink, lads—only a drop—a drop to + the poor kids, that never did any creature harm. I begged again—begged, + for a crust, and got the stocks and lost an ear—see, here bides the + stump; I begged again, and here is the stump of the other to keep me + minded of it. And still I begged again, and was sold for a slave—here + on my cheek under this stain, if I washed it off, ye might see the red S + the branding-iron left there! A <i>slave</i>! Do you + understand that word? An English <i>slave</i>!—that is he that + stands before ye. I have run from my master, and when I am found—the + heavy curse of heaven fall on the law of the land that hath commanded it!—I + shall hang!” {1} + </p> + <p> + A ringing voice came through the murky air— + </p> + <p> + “Thou shalt <i>not</i>!—and this day the end of that law is + come!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link17-215" id="link17-215"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link17-215.jpg (87K)" src="images/17-215.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + All turned, and saw the fantastic figure of the little King approaching + hurriedly; as it emerged into the light and was clearly revealed, a + general explosion of inquiries broke out— + </p> + <p> + “Who is it? <i>What</i> is it? Who art thou, manikin?” + </p> + <p> + The boy stood unconfused in the midst of all those surprised and + questioning eyes, and answered with princely dignity— + </p> + <p> + “I am Edward, King of England.” + </p> + <p> + A wild burst of laughter followed, partly of derision and partly of + delight in the excellence of the joke. The King was stung. He + said sharply— + </p> + <p> + “Ye mannerless vagrants, is this your recognition of the royal boon + I have promised?” + </p> + <p> + He said more, with angry voice and excited gesture, but it was lost in a + whirlwind of laughter and mocking exclamations. ’John Hobbs’ + made several attempts to make himself heard above the din, and at last + succeeded—saying— + </p> + <p> + “Mates, he is my son, a dreamer, a fool, and stark mad—mind + him not—he thinketh he <i>is</i> the King.” + </p> + <p> + “I <i>am</i> the King,” said Edward, turning toward him, + “as thou shalt know to thy cost, in good time. Thou hast + confessed a murder—thou shalt swing for it.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>Thou’lt</i> betray me?—<i>thou</i>? An’ + I get my hands upon thee—” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link17-216" id="link17-216"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link17-216.jpg (101K)" src="images/17-216.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Tut-tut!” said the burley Ruffler, interposing in time to + save the King, and emphasising this service by knocking Hobbs down with + his fist, “hast respect for neither Kings <i>nor</i> Rufflers? + An’ thou insult my presence so again, I’ll hang thee up + myself.” Then he said to his Majesty, “Thou must make no + threats against thy mates, lad; and thou must guard thy tongue from saying + evil of them elsewhere. <i>Be king</i>, if it please thy mad humour, + but be not harmful in it. Sink the title thou hast uttered—’tis + treason; we be bad men in some few trifling ways, but none among us is so + base as to be traitor to his King; we be loving and loyal hearts, in that + regard. Note if I speak truth. Now—all together: ’Long + live Edward, King of England!’” + </p> + <p> + “LONG LIVE EDWARD, KING OF ENGLAND!” + </p> + <p> + The response came with such a thundergust from the motley crew that the + crazy building vibrated to the sound. The little King’s face + lighted with pleasure for an instant, and he slightly inclined his head, + and said with grave simplicity— + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, my good people.” + </p> + <p> + This unexpected result threw the company into convulsions of merriment. + When something like quiet was presently come again, the Ruffler said, + firmly, but with an accent of good nature— + </p> + <p> + “Drop it, boy, ’tis not wise, nor well. Humour thy + fancy, if thou must, but choose some other title.” + </p> + <p> + A tinker shrieked out a suggestion— + </p> + <p> + “Foo-foo the First, King of the Mooncalves!” + </p> + <p> + The title ’took,’ at once, every throat responded, and a + roaring shout went up, of— + </p> + <p> + “Long live Foo-foo the First, King of the Mooncalves!” + followed by hootings, cat-calls, and peals of laughter. + </p> + <p> + “Hale him forth, and crown him!” + </p> + <p> + “Robe him!” + </p> + <p> + “Sceptre him!” + </p> + <p> + “Throne him!” + </p> + <p> + These and twenty other cries broke out at once! and almost before the poor + little victim could draw a breath he was crowned with a tin basin, robed + in a tattered blanket, throned upon a barrel, and sceptred with the tinker’s + soldering-iron. Then all flung themselves upon their knees about him + and sent up a chorus of ironical wailings, and mocking supplications, + whilst they swabbed their eyes with their soiled and ragged sleeves and + aprons— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link17-218" id="link17-218"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link17-218.jpg (108K)" src="images/17-218.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Be gracious to us, O sweet King!” + </p> + <p> + “Trample not upon thy beseeching worms, O noble Majesty!” + </p> + <p> + “Pity thy slaves, and comfort them with a royal kick!” + </p> + <p> + “Cheer us and warm us with thy gracious rays, O flaming sun of + sovereignty!” + </p> + <p> + “Sanctify the ground with the touch of thy foot, that we may eat the + dirt and be ennobled!” + </p> + <p> + “Deign to spit upon us, O Sire, that our children’s children + may tell of thy princely condescension, and be proud and happy for ever!” + </p> + <p> + But the humorous tinker made the ‘hit’ of the evening and + carried off the honours. Kneeling, he pretended to kiss the King’s + foot, and was indignantly spurned; whereupon he went about begging for a + rag to paste over the place upon his face which had been touched by the + foot, saying it must be preserved from contact with the vulgar air, and + that he should make his fortune by going on the highway and exposing it to + view at the rate of a hundred shillings a sight. He made himself so + killingly funny that he was the envy and admiration of the whole mangy + rabble. + </p> + <p> + Tears of shame and indignation stood in the little monarch’s eyes; + and the thought in his heart was, “Had I offered them a deep wrong + they could not be more cruel—yet have I proffered nought but to do + them a kindness—and it is thus they use me for it!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c18" id="c18"></a> <a + name="link18-221" id="link18-221"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link18-221.jpg (75K)" src="images/18-221.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XVIII. The Prince with the Tramps. + </p> + <p> + The troop of vagabonds turned out at early dawn, and set forward on their + march. There was a lowering sky overhead, sloppy ground under foot, + and a winter chill in the air. All gaiety was gone from the company; + some were sullen and silent, some were irritable and petulant, none were + gentle-humoured, all were thirsty. + </p> + <p> + The Ruffler put ‘Jack’ in Hugo’s charge, with some brief + instructions, and commanded John Canty to keep away from him and let him + alone; he also warned Hugo not to be too rough with the lad. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link18-224" id="link18-224"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link18-224.jpg (97K)" src="images/18-224.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + After a while the weather grew milder, and the clouds lifted somewhat. The + troop ceased to shiver, and their spirits began to improve. They + grew more and more cheerful, and finally began to chaff each other and + insult passengers along the highway. This showed that they were + awaking to an appreciation of life and its joys once more. The dread + in which their sort was held was apparent in the fact that everybody gave + them the road, and took their ribald insolences meekly, without venturing + to talk back. They snatched linen from the hedges, occasionally in full + view of the owners, who made no protest, but only seemed grateful that + they did not take the hedges, too. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link18-225" id="link18-225"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link18-225.jpg (97K)" src="images/18-225.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + By-and-by they invaded a small farmhouse and made themselves at home while + the trembling farmer and his people swept the larder clean to furnish a + breakfast for them. They chucked the housewife and her daughters + under the chin whilst receiving the food from their hands, and made coarse + jests about them, accompanied with insulting epithets and bursts of + horse-laughter. They threw bones and vegetables at the farmer and + his sons, kept them dodging all the time, and applauded uproariously when + a good hit was made. They ended by buttering the head of one of the + daughters who resented some of their familiarities. When they took + their leave they threatened to come back and burn the house over the heads + of the family if any report of their doings got to the ears of the + authorities. + </p> + <p> + About noon, after a long and weary tramp, the gang came to a halt behind a + hedge on the outskirts of a considerable village. An hour was + allowed for rest, then the crew scattered themselves abroad to enter the + village at different points to ply their various trades—‘Jack’ + was sent with Hugo. They wandered hither and thither for some time, + Hugo watching for opportunities to do a stroke of business, but finding + none—so he finally said— + </p> + <p> + “I see nought to steal; it is a paltry place. Wherefore we + will beg.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>We</i>, forsooth! Follow thy trade—it befits thee. + But <i>I</i> will not beg.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou’lt not beg!” exclaimed Hugo, eyeing the King with + surprise. “Prithee, since when hast thou reformed?” + </p> + <p> + “What dost thou mean?” + </p> + <p> + “Mean? Hast thou not begged the streets of London all thy + life?” + </p> + <p> + “I? Thou idiot!” + </p> + <p> + “Spare thy compliments—thy stock will last the longer. Thy + father says thou hast begged all thy days. Mayhap he lied. + Peradventure you will even make so bold as to <i>say</i> he lied,” + scoffed Hugo. + </p> + <p> + “Him <i>you</i> call my father? Yes, he lied.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, play not thy merry game of madman so far, mate; use it for + thy amusement, not thy hurt. An’ I tell him this, he will + scorch thee finely for it.” + </p> + <p> + “Save thyself the trouble. I will tell him.” + </p> + <p> + “I like thy spirit, I do in truth; but I do not admire thy judgment. + Bone-rackings and bastings be plenty enow in this life, without going out + of one’s way to invite them. But a truce to these matters; <i>I</i> + believe your father. I doubt not he can lie; I doubt not he <i>doth</i> + lie, upon occasion, for the best of us do that; but there is no occasion + here. A wise man does not waste so good a commodity as lying for + nought. But come; sith it is thy humour to give over begging, + wherewithal shall we busy ourselves? With robbing kitchens?” + </p> + <p> + The King said, impatiently— + </p> + <p> + “Have done with this folly—you weary me!” + </p> + <p> + Hugo replied, with temper— + </p> + <p> + “Now harkee, mate; you will not beg, you will not rob; so be it. But + I will tell you what you <i>will</i> do. You will play decoy whilst + <i>I</i> beg. Refuse, an’ you think you may venture!” + </p> + <p> + The King was about to reply contemptuously, when Hugo said, interrupting— + </p> + <p> + “Peace! Here comes one with a kindly face. Now will I + fall down in a fit. When the stranger runs to me, set you up a wail, + and fall upon your knees, seeming to weep; then cry out as all the devils + of misery were in your belly, and say, ‘Oh, sir, it is my poor + afflicted brother, and we be friendless; o’ God’s name cast + through your merciful eyes one pitiful look upon a sick, forsaken, and + most miserable wretch; bestow one little penny out of thy riches upon one + smitten of God and ready to perish!’—and mind you, keep you <i>on</i> + wailing, and abate not till we bilk him of his penny, else shall you rue + it.” + </p> + <p> + Then immediately Hugo began to moan, and groan, and roll his eyes, and + reel and totter about; and when the stranger was close at hand, down he + sprawled before him, with a shriek, and began to writhe and wallow in the + dirt, in seeming agony. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link18-227" id="link18-227"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link18-227.jpg (143K)" src="images/18-227.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “O, dear, O dear!” cried the benevolent stranger, “O + poor soul, poor soul, how he doth suffer! There—let me help + thee up.” + </p> + <p> + “O noble sir, forbear, and God love you for a princely gentleman—but + it giveth me cruel pain to touch me when I am taken so. My brother + there will tell your worship how I am racked with anguish when these fits + be upon me. A penny, dear sir, a penny, to buy a little food; then + leave me to my sorrows.” + </p> + <p> + “A penny! thou shalt have three, thou hapless creature,”—and + he fumbled in his pocket with nervous haste and got them out. “There, + poor lad, take them and most welcome. Now come hither, my boy, and + help me carry thy stricken brother to yon house, where—” + </p> + <p> + “I am not his brother,” said the King, interrupting. + </p> + <p> + “What! not his brother?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, hear him!” groaned Hugo, then privately ground his teeth. + “He denies his own brother—and he with one foot in the grave!” + </p> + <p> + “Boy, thou art indeed hard of heart, if this is thy brother. For + shame!—and he scarce able to move hand or foot. If he is not + thy brother, who is he, then?” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link18-228" id="link18-228"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link18-228.jpg (137K)" src="images/18-228.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “A beggar and a thief! He has got your money and has picked + your pocket likewise. An’ thou would’st do a healing + miracle, lay thy staff over his shoulders and trust Providence for the + rest.” + </p> + <p> + But Hugo did not tarry for the miracle. In a moment he was up and + off like the wind, the gentleman following after and raising the hue and + cry lustily as he went. The King, breathing deep gratitude to Heaven + for his own release, fled in the opposite direction, and did not slacken + his pace until he was out of harm’s reach. He took the first + road that offered, and soon put the village behind him. He hurried + along, as briskly as he could, during several hours, keeping a nervous + watch over his shoulder for pursuit; but his fears left him at last, and a + grateful sense of security took their place. He recognised, now, + that he was hungry, and also very tired. So he halted at a + farmhouse; but when he was about to speak, he was cut short and driven + rudely away. His clothes were against him. + </p> + <p> + He wandered on, wounded and indignant, and was resolved to put himself in + the way of like treatment no more. But hunger is pride’s + master; so, as the evening drew near, he made an attempt at another + farmhouse; but here he fared worse than before; for he was called hard + names and was promised arrest as a vagrant except he moved on promptly. + </p> + <p> + The night came on, chilly and overcast; and still the footsore monarch + laboured slowly on. He was obliged to keep moving, for every time he + sat down to rest he was soon penetrated to the bone with the cold. All + his sensations and experiences, as he moved through the solemn gloom and + the empty vastness of the night, were new and strange to him. At + intervals he heard voices approach, pass by, and fade into silence; and as + he saw nothing more of the bodies they belonged to than a sort of formless + drifting blur, there was something spectral and uncanny about it all that + made him shudder. Occasionally he caught the twinkle of a light—always + far away, apparently—almost in another world; if he heard the tinkle + of a sheep’s bell, it was vague, distant, indistinct; the muffled + lowing of the herds floated to him on the night wind in vanishing + cadences, a mournful sound; now and then came the complaining howl of a + dog over viewless expanses of field and forest; all sounds were remote; + they made the little King feel that all life and activity were far removed + from him, and that he stood solitary, companionless, in the centre of a + measureless solitude. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link18-230" id="link18-230"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link18-230.jpg (152K)" src="images/18-230.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + He stumbled along, through the gruesome fascinations of this new + experience, startled occasionally by the soft rustling of the dry leaves + overhead, so like human whispers they seemed to sound; and by-and-by he + came suddenly upon the freckled light of a tin lantern near at hand. + He stepped back into the shadows and waited. The lantern stood + by the open door of a barn. The King waited some time—there + was no sound, and nobody stirring. He got so cold, standing still, + and the hospitable barn looked so enticing, that at last he resolved to + risk everything and enter. He started swiftly and stealthily, and just as + he was crossing the threshold he heard voices behind him. He darted + behind a cask, within the barn, and stooped down. Two farm-labourers + came in, bringing the lantern with them, and fell to work, talking + meanwhile. Whilst they moved about with the light, the King made + good use of his eyes and took the bearings of what seemed to be a + good-sized stall at the further end of the place, purposing to grope his + way to it when he should be left to himself. He also noted the + position of a pile of horse blankets, midway of the route, with the intent + to levy upon them for the service of the crown of England for one night. + </p> + <p> + By-and-by the men finished and went away, fastening the door behind them + and taking the lantern with them. The shivering King made for the + blankets, with as good speed as the darkness would allow; gathered them + up, and then groped his way safely to the stall. Of two of the + blankets he made a bed, then covered himself with the remaining two. + He was a glad monarch, now, though the blankets were old and thin, + and not quite warm enough; and besides gave out a pungent horsey odour + that was almost suffocatingly powerful. + </p> + <p> + Although the King was hungry and chilly, he was also so tired and so + drowsy that these latter influences soon began to get the advantage of the + former, and he presently dozed off into a state of semi-consciousness. + Then, just as he was on the point of losing himself wholly, he + distinctly felt something touch him! He was broad awake in a moment, + and gasping for breath. The cold horror of that mysterious touch in + the dark almost made his heart stand still. He lay motionless, and + listened, scarcely breathing. But nothing stirred, and there was no sound. + He continued to listen, and wait, during what seemed a long time, + but still nothing stirred, and there was no sound. So he began to + drop into a drowse once more, at last; and all at once he felt that + mysterious touch again! It was a grisly thing, this light touch from + this noiseless and invisible presence; it made the boy sick with ghostly + fears. What should he do? That was the question; but he did + not know how to answer it. Should he leave these reasonably + comfortable quarters and fly from this inscrutable horror? But fly + whither? He could not get out of the barn; and the idea of scurrying + blindly hither and thither in the dark, within the captivity of the four + walls, with this phantom gliding after him, and visiting him with that + soft hideous touch upon cheek or shoulder at every turn, was intolerable. + But to stay where he was, and endure this living death all night—was + that better? No. What, then, was there left to do? Ah, + there was but one course; he knew it well—he must put out his hand + and find that thing! + </p> + <p> + It was easy to think this; but it was hard to brace himself up to try it. + Three times he stretched his hand a little way out into the dark, + gingerly; and snatched it suddenly back, with a gasp—not because it + had encountered anything, but because he had felt so sure it was just <i>going</i> + to. But the fourth time, he groped a little further, and his hand + lightly swept against something soft and warm. This petrified him, + nearly, with fright; his mind was in such a state that he could imagine + the thing to be nothing else than a corpse, newly dead and still warm. He + thought he would rather die than touch it again. But he thought this + false thought because he did not know the immortal strength of human + curiosity. In no long time his hand was tremblingly groping again—against + his judgment, and without his consent—but groping persistently on, + just the same. It encountered a bunch of long hair; he shuddered, + but followed up the hair and found what seemed to be a warm rope; followed + up the rope and found an innocent calf!—for the rope was not a rope + at all, but the calf’s tail. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link18-232" id="link18-232"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link18-232.jpg (88K)" src="images/18-232.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The King was cordially ashamed of himself for having gotten all that + fright and misery out of so paltry a matter as a slumbering calf; but he + need not have felt so about it, for it was not the calf that frightened + him, but a dreadful non-existent something which the calf stood for; and + any other boy, in those old superstitious times, would have acted and + suffered just as he had done. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link18-233" id="link18-233"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link18-233.jpg (109K)" src="images/18-233.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The King was not only delighted to find that the creature was only a calf, + but delighted to have the calf’s company; for he had been feeling so + lonesome and friendless that the company and comradeship of even this + humble animal were welcome. And he had been so buffeted, so rudely + entreated by his own kind, that it was a real comfort to him to feel that + he was at last in the society of a fellow-creature that had at least a + soft heart and a gentle spirit, whatever loftier attributes might be + lacking. So he resolved to waive rank and make friends with the + calf. + </p> + <p> + While stroking its sleek warm back—for it lay near him and within + easy reach—it occurred to him that this calf might be utilised in + more ways than one. Whereupon he re-arranged his bed, spreading it + down close to the calf; then he cuddled himself up to the calf’s + back, drew the covers up over himself and his friend, and in a minute or + two was as warm and comfortable as he had ever been in the downy couches + of the regal palace of Westminster. + </p> + <p> + Pleasant thoughts came at once; life took on a cheerfuller seeming. He + was free of the bonds of servitude and crime, free of the companionship of + base and brutal outlaws; he was warm; he was sheltered; in a word, he was + happy. The night wind was rising; it swept by in fitful gusts that + made the old barn quake and rattle, then its forces died down at + intervals, and went moaning and wailing around corners and projections—but + it was all music to the King, now that he was snug and comfortable: let it + blow and rage, let it batter and bang, let it moan and wail, he minded it + not, he only enjoyed it. He merely snuggled the closer to his + friend, in a luxury of warm contentment, and drifted blissfully out of + consciousness into a deep and dreamless sleep that was full of serenity + and peace. The distant dogs howled, the melancholy kine complained, + and the winds went on raging, whilst furious sheets of rain drove along + the roof; but the Majesty of England slept on, undisturbed, and the calf + did the same, it being a simple creature, and not easily troubled by + storms or embarrassed by sleeping with a king. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c19" id="c19"></a> <a + name="link19-235" id="link19-235"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link19-235.jpg (57K)" src="images/19-235.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XIX. The Prince with the peasants. + </p> + <p> + When the King awoke in the early morning, he found that a wet but + thoughtful rat had crept into the place during the night and made a cosy + bed for itself in his bosom. Being disturbed now, it scampered away. + The boy smiled, and said, “Poor fool, why so fearful? I am as + forlorn as thou. ’Twould be a sham in me to hurt the helpless, + who am myself so helpless. Moreover, I owe you thanks for a good + omen; for when a king has fallen so low that the very rats do make a bed + of him, it surely meaneth that his fortunes be upon the turn, since it is + plain he can no lower go.” + </p> + <p> + He got up and stepped out of the stall, and just then he heard the sound + of children’s voices. The barn door opened and a couple of + little girls came in. As soon as they saw him their talking and + laughing ceased, and they stopped and stood still, gazing at him with + strong curiosity; they presently began to whisper together, then they + approached nearer, and stopped again to gaze and whisper. By-and-by + they gathered courage and began to discuss him aloud. One said— + </p> + <p> + “He hath a comely face.” + </p> + <p> + The other added— + </p> + <p> + “And pretty hair.” + </p> + <p> + “But is ill clothed enow.” + </p> + <p> + “And how starved he looketh.” + </p> + <p> + They came still nearer, sidling shyly around and about him, examining him + minutely from all points, as if he were some strange new kind of animal, + but warily and watchfully the while, as if they half feared he might be a + sort of animal that would bite, upon occasion. Finally they halted + before him, holding each other’s hands for protection, and took a + good satisfying stare with their innocent eyes; then one of them plucked + up all her courage and inquired with honest directness— + </p> + <p> + “Who art thou, boy?” + </p> + <p> + “I am the King,” was the grave answer. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link19-239" id="link19-239"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link19-239.jpg (71K)" src="images/19-239.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The children gave a little start, and their eyes spread themselves wide + open and remained so during a speechless half minute. Then curiosity + broke the silence— + </p> + <p> + “The <i>King</i>? What King?” + </p> + <p> + “The King of England.” + </p> + <p> + The children looked at each other—then at him—then at each + other again—wonderingly, perplexedly; then one said— + </p> + <p> + “Didst hear him, Margery?—he said he is the King. Can + that be true?” + </p> + <p> + “How can it be else but true, Prissy? Would he say a lie? + For look you, Prissy, an’ it were not true, it <i>would</i> be + a lie. It surely would be. Now think on’t. For all + things that be not true, be lies—thou canst make nought else out of + it.” + </p> + <p> + It was a good tight argument, without a leak in it anywhere; and it left + Prissy’s half-doubts not a leg to stand on. She considered a + moment, then put the King upon his honour with the simple remark— + </p> + <p> + “If thou art truly the King, then I believe thee.” + </p> + <p> + “I am truly the King.” + </p> + <p> + This settled the matter. His Majesty’s royalty was accepted + without further question or discussion, and the two little girls began at + once to inquire into how he came to be where he was, and how he came to be + so unroyally clad, and whither he was bound, and all about his affairs. + It was a mighty relief to him to pour out his troubles where they + would not be scoffed at or doubted; so he told his tale with feeling, + forgetting even his hunger for the time; and it was received with the + deepest and tenderest sympathy by the gentle little maids. But when + he got down to his latest experiences and they learned how long he had + been without food, they cut him short and hurried him away to the + farmhouse to find a breakfast for him. + </p> + <p> + The King was cheerful and happy now, and said to himself, “When I am + come to mine own again, I will always honour little children, remembering + how that these trusted me and believed in me in my time of trouble; whilst + they that were older, and thought themselves wiser, mocked at me and held + me for a liar.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link19-240" id="link19-240"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link19-240.jpg (103K)" src="images/19-240.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The children’s mother received the King kindly, and was full of + pity; for his forlorn condition and apparently crazed intellect touched + her womanly heart. She was a widow, and rather poor; consequently + she had seen trouble enough to enable her to feel for the unfortunate. + She imagined that the demented boy had wandered away from his + friends or keepers; so she tried to find out whence he had come, in order + that she might take measures to return him; but all her references to + neighbouring towns and villages, and all her inquiries in the same line + went for nothing—the boy’s face, and his answers, too, showed + that the things she was talking of were not familiar to him. He + spoke earnestly and simply about court matters, and broke down, more than + once, when speaking of the late King ‘his father’; but + whenever the conversation changed to baser topics, he lost interest and + became silent. + </p> + <p> + The woman was mightily puzzled; but she did not give up. As she + proceeded with her cooking, she set herself to contriving devices to + surprise the boy into betraying his real secret. She talked about + cattle—he showed no concern; then about sheep—the same result: + so her guess that he had been a shepherd boy was an error; she + talked about mills; and about weavers, tinkers, smiths, trades and + tradesmen of all sorts; and about Bedlam, and jails, and charitable + retreats: but no matter, she was baffled at all points. Not + altogether, either; for she argued that she had narrowed the thing down to + domestic service. Yes, she was sure she was on the right track, now; + he must have been a house servant. So she led up to that. But + the result was discouraging. The subject of sweeping appeared to weary + him; fire-building failed to stir him; scrubbing and scouring awoke no + enthusiasm. The goodwife touched, with a perishing hope, and rather as a + matter of form, upon the subject of cooking. To her surprise, and + her vast delight, the King’s face lighted at once! Ah, she had + hunted him down at last, she thought; and she was right proud, too, of the + devious shrewdness and tact which had accomplished it. + </p> + <p> + Her tired tongue got a chance to rest, now; for the King’s, inspired + by gnawing hunger and the fragrant smells that came from the sputtering + pots and pans, turned itself loose and delivered itself up to such an + eloquent dissertation upon certain toothsome dishes, that within three + minutes the woman said to herself, “Of a truth I was right—he + hath holpen in a kitchen!” Then he broadened his bill of fare, + and discussed it with such appreciation and animation, that the goodwife + said to herself, “Good lack! how can he know so many dishes, and so + fine ones withal? For these belong only upon the tables of the rich + and great. Ah, now I see! ragged outcast as he is, he must have + served in the palace before his reason went astray; yes, he must have + helped in the very kitchen of the King himself! I will test him.” + </p> + <p> + Full of eagerness to prove her sagacity, she told the King to mind the + cooking a moment—hinting that he might manufacture and add a dish or + two, if he chose; then she went out of the room and gave her children a + sign to follow after. The King muttered— + </p> + <p> + “Another English king had a commission like to this, in a bygone + time—it is nothing against my dignity to undertake an office which + the great Alfred stooped to assume. But I will try to better serve + my trust than he; for he let the cakes burn.” + </p> + <p> + The intent was good, but the performance was not answerable to it, for + this King, like the other one, soon fell into deep thinkings concerning + his vast affairs, and the same calamity resulted—the cookery got + burned. The woman returned in time to save the breakfast from entire + destruction; and she promptly brought the King out of his dreams with a + brisk and cordial tongue-lashing. Then, seeing how troubled he was over + his violated trust, she softened at once, and was all goodness and + gentleness toward him. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link19-242" id="link19-242"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link19-242.jpg (145K)" src="images/19-242.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The boy made a hearty and satisfying meal, and was greatly refreshed and + gladdened by it. It was a meal which was distinguished by this + curious feature, that rank was waived on both sides; yet neither recipient + of the favour was aware that it had been extended. The goodwife had + intended to feed this young tramp with broken victuals in a corner, like + any other tramp or like a dog; but she was so remorseful for the scolding + she had given him, that she did what she could to atone for it by allowing + him to sit at the family table and eat with his betters, on ostensible + terms of equality with them; and the King, on his side, was so remorseful + for having broken his trust, after the family had been so kind to him, + that he forced himself to atone for it by humbling himself to the family + level, instead of requiring the woman and her children to stand and wait + upon him, while he occupied their table in the solitary state due to his + birth and dignity. It does us all good to unbend sometimes. This + good woman was made happy all the day long by the applauses which she got + out of herself for her magnanimous condescension to a tramp; and the King + was just as self-complacent over his gracious humility toward a humble + peasant woman. + </p> + <p> + When breakfast was over, the housewife told the King to wash up the + dishes. This command was a staggerer, for a moment, and the King + came near rebelling; but then he said to himself, “Alfred the Great + watched the cakes; doubtless he would have washed the dishes too—therefore + will I essay it.” + </p> + <p> + He made a sufficiently poor job of it; and to his surprise too, for the + cleaning of wooden spoons and trenchers had seemed an easy thing to do. It + was a tedious and troublesome piece of work, but he finished it at last. + He was becoming impatient to get away on his journey now; however, + he was not to lose this thrifty dame’s society so easily. She + furnished him some little odds and ends of employment, which he got + through with after a fair fashion and with some credit. Then she set + him and the little girls to paring some winter apples; but he was so + awkward at this service that she retired him from it and gave him a + butcher knife to grind. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link19-244" id="link19-244"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link19-244.jpg (129K)" src="images/19-244.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Afterwards she kept him carding wool until he began to think he had laid + the good King Alfred about far enough in the shade for the present in the + matter of showy menial heroisms that would read picturesquely in + story-books and histories, and so he was half-minded to resign. And + when, just after the noonday dinner, the goodwife gave him a basket of + kittens to drown, he did resign. At least he was just going to + resign—for he felt that he must draw the line somewhere, and it + seemed to him that to draw it at kitten-drowning was about the right thing—when + there was an interruption. The interruption was John Canty—with + a peddler’s pack on his back—and Hugo. + </p> + <p> + The King discovered these rascals approaching the front gate before they + had had a chance to see him; so he said nothing about drawing the line, + but took up his basket of kittens and stepped quietly out the back way, + without a word. He left the creatures in an out-house, and hurried + on, into a narrow lane at the rear. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c20" id="c20"></a> <a + name="link20-245" id="link20-245"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link20-245.jpg (42K)" src="images/20-245.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XX. The Prince and the hermit. + </p> + <p> + The high hedge hid him from the house, now; and so, under the impulse of a + deadly fright, he let out all his forces and sped toward a wood in the + distance. He never looked back until he had almost gained the + shelter of the forest; then he turned and descried two figures in the + distance. That was sufficient; he did not wait to scan them critically, + but hurried on, and never abated his pace till he was far within the + twilight depths of the wood. Then he stopped; being persuaded that he was + now tolerably safe. He listened intently, but the stillness was profound + and solemn—awful, even, and depressing to the spirits. At wide + intervals his straining ear did detect sounds, but they were so remote, + and hollow, and mysterious, that they seemed not to be real sounds, but + only the moaning and complaining ghosts of departed ones. So the + sounds were yet more dreary than the silence which they interrupted. + </p> + <p> + It was his purpose, in the beginning, to stay where he was the rest of the + day; but a chill soon invaded his perspiring body, and he was at last + obliged to resume movement in order to get warm. He struck straight + through the forest, hoping to pierce to a road presently, but he was + disappointed in this. He travelled on and on; but the farther he + went, the denser the wood became, apparently. The gloom began to + thicken, by-and-by, and the King realised that the night was coming on. + It made him shudder to think of spending it in such an uncanny + place; so he tried to hurry faster, but he only made the less speed, for + he could not now see well enough to choose his steps judiciously; + consequently he kept tripping over roots and tangling himself in vines and + briers. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link20-248" id="link20-248"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link20-248.jpg (160K)" src="images/20-248.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + And how glad he was when at last he caught the glimmer of a light! He + approached it warily, stopping often to look about him and listen. It + came from an unglazed window-opening in a shabby little hut. He + heard a voice, now, and felt a disposition to run and hide; but he changed + his mind at once, for this voice was praying, evidently. He glided + to the one window of the hut, raised himself on tiptoe, and stole a glance + within. The room was small; its floor was the natural earth, beaten + hard by use; in a corner was a bed of rushes and a ragged blanket or two; + near it was a pail, a cup, a basin, and two or three pots and pans; there + was a short bench and a three-legged stool; on the hearth the remains of a + faggot fire were smouldering; before a shrine, which was lighted by a + single candle, knelt an aged man, and on an old wooden box at his side lay + an open book and a human skull. The man was of large, bony frame; + his hair and whiskers were very long and snowy white; he was clothed in a + robe of sheepskins which reached from his neck to his heels. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link20-249" id="link20-249"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link20-249.jpg (139K)" src="images/20-249.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “A holy hermit!” said the King to himself; “now am I + indeed fortunate.” + </p> + <p> + The hermit rose from his knees; the King knocked. A deep voice + responded— + </p> + <p> + “Enter!—but leave sin behind, for the ground whereon thou + shalt stand is holy!” + </p> + <p> + The King entered, and paused. The hermit turned a pair of gleaming, + unrestful eyes upon him, and said— + </p> + <p> + “Who art thou?” + </p> + <p> + “I am the King,” came the answer, with placid simplicity. + </p> + <p> + “Welcome, King!” cried the hermit, with enthusiasm. Then, + bustling about with feverish activity, and constantly saying, “Welcome, + welcome,” he arranged his bench, seated the King on it, by the + hearth, threw some faggots on the fire, and finally fell to pacing the + floor with a nervous stride. + </p> + <p> + “Welcome! Many have sought sanctuary here, but they were not + worthy, and were turned away. But a King who casts his crown away, + and despises the vain splendours of his office, and clothes his body in + rags, to devote his life to holiness and the mortification of the flesh—he + is worthy, he is welcome!—here shall he abide all his days till + death come.” The King hastened to interrupt and explain, but + the hermit paid no attention to him—did not even hear him, + apparently, but went right on with his talk, with a raised voice and a + growing energy. "And thou shalt be at peace here. None shall + find out thy refuge to disquiet thee with supplications to return to that + empty and foolish life which God hath moved thee to abandon. Thou + shalt pray here; thou shalt study the Book; thou shalt meditate upon the + follies and delusions of this world, and upon the sublimities of the world + to come; thou shalt feed upon crusts and herbs, and scourge thy body with + whips, daily, to the purifying of thy soul. Thou shalt wear a hair shirt + next thy skin; thou shalt drink water only; and thou shalt be at peace; + yes, wholly at peace; for whoso comes to seek thee shall go his way again, + baffled; he shall not find thee, he shall not molest thee.” + </p> + <p> + The old man, still pacing back and forth, ceased to speak aloud, and began + to mutter. The King seized this opportunity to state his case; and + he did it with an eloquence inspired by uneasiness and apprehension. + But the hermit went on muttering, and gave no heed. And still + muttering, he approached the King and said impressively— + </p> + <p> + “’Sh! I will tell you a secret!” He bent + down to impart it, but checked himself, and assumed a listening attitude. + After a moment or two he went on tiptoe to the window-opening, put + his head out, and peered around in the gloaming, then came tiptoeing back + again, put his face close down to the King’s, and whispered— + </p> + <p> + “I am an archangel!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link20-251" id="link20-251"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link20-251.jpg (65K)" src="images/20-251.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The King started violently, and said to himself, “Would God I were + with the outlaws again; for lo, now am I the prisoner of a madman!” + His apprehensions were heightened, and they showed plainly in his + face. In a low excited voice the hermit continued— + </p> + <p> + “I see you feel my atmosphere! There’s awe in your face! + None may be in this atmosphere and not be thus affected; for it is + the very atmosphere of heaven. I go thither and return, in the + twinkling of an eye. I was made an archangel on this very spot, it + is five years ago, by angels sent from heaven to confer that awful + dignity. Their presence filled this place with an intolerable + brightness. And they knelt to me, King! yes, they knelt to me! for I + was greater than they. I have walked in the courts of heaven, and + held speech with the patriarchs. Touch my hand—be not afraid—touch + it. There—now thou hast touched a hand which has been clasped + by Abraham and Isaac and Jacob! For I have walked in the golden + courts; I have seen the Deity face to face!” He paused, to + give this speech effect; then his face suddenly changed, and he started to + his feet again saying, with angry energy, “Yes, I am an archangel; + <i>a mere archangel!</i>—I that might have been pope! It is + verily true. I was told it from heaven in a dream, twenty years ago; + ah, yes, I was to be pope!—and I <i>should</i> have been pope, for + Heaven had said it—but the King dissolved my religious house, and I, + poor obscure unfriended monk, was cast homeless upon the world, robbed of + my mighty destiny!” Here he began to mumble again, and beat his + forehead in futile rage, with his fist; now and then articulating a + venomous curse, and now and then a pathetic “Wherefore I am nought + but an archangel—I that should have been pope!” + </p> + <p> + So he went on, for an hour, whilst the poor little King sat and suffered. + Then all at once the old man’s frenzy departed, and he became all + gentleness. His voice softened, he came down out of his clouds, and + fell to prattling along so simply and so humanly, that he soon won the + King’s heart completely. The old devotee moved the boy nearer + to the fire and made him comfortable; doctored his small bruises and + abrasions with a deft and tender hand; and then set about preparing and + cooking a supper—chatting pleasantly all the time, and occasionally + stroking the lad’s cheek or patting his head, in such a gently + caressing way that in a little while all the fear and repulsion inspired + by the archangel were changed to reverence and affection for the man. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link20-253" id="link20-253"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link20-253.jpg (131K)" src="images/20-253.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + This happy state of things continued while the two ate the supper; then, + after a prayer before the shrine, the hermit put the boy to bed, in a + small adjoining room, tucking him in as snugly and lovingly as a mother + might; and so, with a parting caress, left him and sat down by the fire, + and began to poke the brands about in an absent and aimless way. Presently + he paused; then tapped his forehead several times with his fingers, as if + trying to recall some thought which had escaped from his mind. Apparently + he was unsuccessful. Now he started quickly up, and entered his + guest’s room, and said— + </p> + <p> + “Thou art King?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” was the response, drowsily uttered. + </p> + <p> + “What King?” + </p> + <p> + “Of England.” + </p> + <p> + “Of England? Then Henry is gone!” + </p> + <p> + “Alack, it is so. I am his son.” + </p> + <p> + A black frown settled down upon the hermit’s face, and he clenched + his bony hands with a vindictive energy. He stood a few moments, + breathing fast and swallowing repeatedly, then said in a husky voice— + </p> + <p> + “Dost know it was he that turned us out into the world houseless and + homeless?” + </p> + <p> + There was no response. The old man bent down and scanned the boy’s + reposeful face and listened to his placid breathing. "He sleeps—sleeps + soundly;” and the frown vanished away and gave place to an + expression of evil satisfaction. A smile flitted across the dreaming + boy’s features. The hermit muttered, “So—his heart is + happy;” and he turned away. He went stealthily about the + place, seeking here and there for something; now and then halting to + listen, now and then jerking his head around and casting a quick glance + toward the bed; and always muttering, always mumbling to himself. At + last he found what he seemed to want—a rusty old butcher knife and a + whetstone. Then he crept to his place by the fire, sat himself down, + and began to whet the knife softly on the stone, still muttering, + mumbling, ejaculating. The winds sighed around the lonely place, the + mysterious voices of the night floated by out of the distances. The + shining eyes of venturesome mice and rats peered out at the old man from + cracks and coverts, but he went on with his work, rapt, absorbed, and + noted none of these things. + </p> + <p> + At long intervals he drew his thumb along the edge of his knife, and + nodded his head with satisfaction. "It grows sharper,” he + said; “yes, it grows sharper.” + </p> + <p> + He took no note of the flight of time, but worked tranquilly on, + entertaining himself with his thoughts, which broke out occasionally in + articulate speech— + </p> + <p> + “His father wrought us evil, he destroyed us—and is gone down + into the eternal fires! Yes, down into the eternal fires! He + escaped us—but it was God’s will, yes it was God’s will, + we must not repine. But he hath not escaped the fires! No, he + hath not escaped the fires, the consuming, unpitying, remorseless fires—and + <i>they</i> are everlasting!” + </p> + <p> + And so he wrought, and still wrought—mumbling, chuckling a low + rasping chuckle at times—and at times breaking again into words— + </p> + <p> + “It was his father that did it all. I am but an archangel; but + for him I should be pope!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link20-255" id="link20-255"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link20-255.jpg (128K)" src="images/20-255.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The King stirred. The hermit sprang noiselessly to the bedside, and + went down upon his knees, bending over the prostrate form with his knife + uplifted. The boy stirred again; his eyes came open for an instant, + but there was no speculation in them, they saw nothing; the next moment + his tranquil breathing showed that his sleep was sound once more. + </p> + <p> + The hermit watched and listened, for a time, keeping his position and + scarcely breathing; then he slowly lowered his arms, and presently crept + away, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “It is long past midnight; it is not best that he should cry out, + lest by accident someone be passing.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link20-256" id="link20-256"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link20-256.jpg (69K)" src="images/20-256.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + He glided about his hovel, gathering a rag here, a thong there, and + another one yonder; then he returned, and by careful and gentle handling + he managed to tie the King’s ankles together without waking him. + Next he essayed to tie the wrists; he made several attempts to cross + them, but the boy always drew one hand or the other away, just as the cord + was ready to be applied; but at last, when the archangel was almost ready + to despair, the boy crossed his hands himself, and the next moment they + were bound. Now a bandage was passed under the sleeper’s chin and + brought up over his head and tied fast—and so softly, so gradually, + and so deftly were the knots drawn together and compacted, that the boy + slept peacefully through it all without stirring. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c21" id="c21"></a> <a + name="link21-257" id="link21-257"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link21-257.jpg (51K)" src="images/21-257.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XXI. Hendon to the rescue. + </p> + <p> + The old man glided away, stooping, stealthy, cat-like, and brought the low + bench. He seated himself upon it, half his body in the dim and + flickering light, and the other half in shadow; and so, with his craving + eyes bent upon the slumbering boy, he kept his patient vigil there, + heedless of the drift of time, and softly whetted his knife, and mumbled + and chuckled; and in aspect and attitude he resembled nothing so much as a + grizzly, monstrous spider, gloating over some hapless insect that lay + bound and helpless in his web. + </p> + <p> + After a long while, the old man, who was still gazing,—yet not + seeing, his mind having settled into a dreamy abstraction,—observed, + on a sudden, that the boy’s eyes were open! wide open and staring!—staring + up in frozen horror at the knife. The smile of a gratified devil + crept over the old man’s face, and he said, without changing his + attitude or his occupation— + </p> + <p> + “Son of Henry the Eighth, hast thou prayed?” + </p> + <p> + The boy struggled helplessly in his bonds, and at the same time forced a + smothered sound through his closed jaws, which the hermit chose to + interpret as an affirmative answer to his question. + </p> + <p> + “Then pray again. Pray the prayer for the dying!” + </p> + <p> + A shudder shook the boy’s frame, and his face blenched. Then + he struggled again to free himself—turning and twisting himself this + way and that; tugging frantically, fiercely, desperately—but + uselessly—to burst his fetters; and all the while the old ogre + smiled down upon him, and nodded his head, and placidly whetted his knife; + mumbling, from time to time, “The moments are precious, they are few + and precious—pray the prayer for the dying!” + </p> + <p> + The boy uttered a despairing groan, and ceased from his struggles, + panting. The tears came, then, and trickled, one after the other, + down his face; but this piteous sight wrought no softening effect upon the + savage old man. + </p> + <p> + The dawn was coming now; the hermit observed it, and spoke up sharply, + with a touch of nervous apprehension in his voice— + </p> + <p> + “I may not indulge this ecstasy longer! The night is already + gone. It seems but a moment—only a moment; would it had + endured a year! Seed of the Church’s spoiler, close thy + perishing eyes, an’ thou fearest to look upon—” + </p> + <p> + The rest was lost in inarticulate mutterings. The old man sank upon + his knees, his knife in his hand, and bent himself over the moaning boy. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link21-260" id="link21-260"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link21-260.jpg (111K)" src="images/21-260.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Hark! There was a sound of voices near the cabin—the knife + dropped from the hermit’s hand; he cast a sheepskin over the boy and + started up, trembling. The sounds increased, and presently the + voices became rough and angry; then came blows, and cries for help; then a + clatter of swift footsteps, retreating. Immediately came a + succession of thundering knocks upon the cabin door, followed by— + </p> + <p> + “Hullo-o-o! Open! And despatch, in the name of all the + devils!” + </p> + <p> + Oh, this was the blessedest sound that had ever made music in the King’s + ears; for it was Miles Hendon’s voice! + </p> + <p> + The hermit, grinding his teeth in impotent rage, moved swiftly out of the + bedchamber, closing the door behind him; and straightway the King heard a + talk, to this effect, proceeding from the ‘chapel’:— + </p> + <p> + “Homage and greeting, reverend sir! Where is the boy—<i>my</i> + boy?” + </p> + <p> + “What boy, friend?” + </p> + <p> + “What boy! Lie me no lies, sir priest, play me no deceptions!—I + am not in the humour for it. Near to this place I caught the + scoundrels who I judged did steal him from me, and I made them confess; + they said he was at large again, and they had tracked him to your door. + They showed me his very footprints. Now palter no more; for + look you, holy sir, an’ thou produce him not—Where is the boy?” + </p> + <p> + “O good sir, peradventure you mean the ragged regal vagrant that + tarried here the night. If such as you take an interest in such as + he, know, then, that I have sent him of an errand. He will be back + anon.” + </p> + <p> + “How soon? How soon? Come, waste not the time—cannot + I overtake him? How soon will he be back?” + </p> + <p> + “Thou need’st not stir; he will return quickly.” + </p> + <p> + “So be it, then. I will try to wait. But stop!—<i>you</i> + sent him of an errand?—you! Verily this is a lie—he + would not go. He would pull thy old beard, an’ thou didst + offer him such an insolence. Thou hast lied, friend; thou hast surely + lied! He would not go for thee, nor for any man.” + </p> + <p> + “For any <i>man</i>—no; haply not. But I am not a man.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>What</i>! Now o’ God’s name what art thou, + then?” + </p> + <p> + “It is a secret—mark thou reveal it not. I am an + archangel!” + </p> + <p> + There was a tremendous ejaculation from Miles Hendon—not altogether + unprofane—followed by— + </p> + <p> + “This doth well and truly account for his complaisance! Right + well I knew he would budge nor hand nor foot in the menial service of any + mortal; but, lord, even a king must obey when an archangel gives the word + o’ command! Let me—’sh! What noise was that?” + </p> + <p> + All this while the little King had been yonder, alternately quaking with + terror and trembling with hope; and all the while, too, he had thrown all + the strength he could into his anguished moanings, constantly expecting + them to reach Hendon’s ear, but always realising, with bitterness, + that they failed, or at least made no impression. So this last + remark of his servant came as comes a reviving breath from fresh fields to + the dying; and he exerted himself once more, and with all his energy, just + as the hermit was saying— + </p> + <p> + “Noise? I heard only the wind.” + </p> + <p> + “Mayhap it was. Yes, doubtless that was it. I have been + hearing it faintly all the—there it is again! It is not the + wind! What an odd sound! Come, we will hunt it out!” + </p> + <p> + Now the King’s joy was nearly insupportable. His tired lungs + did their utmost—and hopefully, too—but the sealed jaws and + the muffling sheepskin sadly crippled the effort. Then the poor + fellow’s heart sank, to hear the hermit say— + </p> + <p> + “Ah, it came from without—I think from the copse yonder. + Come, I will lead the way.” + </p> + <p> + The King heard the two pass out, talking; heard their footsteps die + quickly away—then he was alone with a boding, brooding, awful + silence. + </p> + <p> + It seemed an age till he heard the steps and voices approaching again—and + this time he heard an added sound,—the trampling of hoofs, + apparently. Then he heard Hendon say— + </p> + <p> + “I will not wait longer. I <i>cannot</i> wait longer. He + has lost his way in this thick wood. Which direction took he? Quick—point + it out to me.” + </p> + <p> + “He—but wait; I will go with thee.” + </p> + <p> + “Good—good! Why, truly thou art better than thy looks. + Marry I do not think there’s not another archangel with so + right a heart as thine. Wilt ride? Wilt take the wee donkey + that’s for my boy, or wilt thou fork thy holy legs over this + ill-conditioned slave of a mule that I have provided for myself?—and + had been cheated in too, had he cost but the indifferent sum of a month’s + usury on a brass farthing let to a tinker out of work.” + </p> + <p> + “No—ride thy mule, and lead thine ass; I am surer on mine own + feet, and will walk.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link21-262" id="link21-262"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link21-262.jpg (97K)" src="images/21-262.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Then prithee mind the little beast for me while I take my life in + my hands and make what success I may toward mounting the big one.” + </p> + <p> + Then followed a confusion of kicks, cuffs, tramplings and plungings, + accompanied by a thunderous intermingling of volleyed curses, and finally + a bitter apostrophe to the mule, which must have broken its spirit, for + hostilities seemed to cease from that moment. + </p> + <p> + With unutterable misery the fettered little King heard the voices and + footsteps fade away and die out. All hope forsook him, now, for the + moment, and a dull despair settled down upon his heart. “My only + friend is deceived and got rid of,” he said; “the hermit will + return and—” He finished with a gasp; and at once fell + to struggling so frantically with his bonds again, that he shook off the + smothering sheepskin. + </p> + <p> + And now he heard the door open! The sound chilled him to the marrow—already + he seemed to feel the knife at his throat. Horror made him close his + eyes; horror made him open them again—and before him stood John + Canty and Hugo! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link21-264" id="link21-264"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link21-264.jpg (96K)" src="images/21-264.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + He would have said “Thank God!” if his jaws had been free. + </p> + <p> + A moment or two later his limbs were at liberty, and his captors, each + gripping him by an arm, were hurrying him with all speed through the + forest. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c22" id="c22"></a> <a + name="link22-267" id="link22-267"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link22-267.jpg (44K)" src="images/22-267.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XXII. A Victim of Treachery. + </p> + <p> + Once more ‘King Foo-foo the First’ was roving with the tramps + and outlaws, a butt for their coarse jests and dull-witted railleries, and + sometimes the victim of small spitefulness at the hands of Canty and Hugo + when the Ruffler’s back was turned. None but Canty and Hugo + really disliked him. Some of the others liked him, and all admired + his pluck and spirit. During two or three days, Hugo, in whose ward + and charge the King was, did what he covertly could to make the boy + uncomfortable; and at night, during the customary orgies, he amused the + company by putting small indignities upon him—always as if by + accident. Twice he stepped upon the King’s toes—accidentally—and + the King, as became his royalty, was contemptuously unconscious of it and + indifferent to it; but the third time Hugo entertained himself in that + way, the King felled him to the ground with a cudgel, to the prodigious + delight of the tribe. Hugo, consumed with anger and shame, sprang + up, seized a cudgel, and came at his small adversary in a fury. Instantly + a ring was formed around the gladiators, and the betting and cheering + began. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link22-270" id="link22-270"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link22-270.jpg (85K)" src="images/22-270.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + But poor Hugo stood no chance whatever. His frantic and lubberly + ’prentice-work found but a poor market for itself when pitted + against an arm which had been trained by the first masters of Europe in + single-stick, quarter-staff, and every art and trick of swordsmanship. + The little King stood, alert but at graceful ease, and caught and + turned aside the thick rain of blows with a facility and precision which + set the motley on-lookers wild with admiration; and every now and then, + when his practised eye detected an opening, and a lightning-swift rap upon + Hugo’s head followed as a result, the storm of cheers and laughter + that swept the place was something wonderful to hear. At the end of + fifteen minutes, Hugo, all battered, bruised, and the target for a + pitiless bombardment of ridicule, slunk from the field; and the unscathed + hero of the fight was seized and borne aloft upon the shoulders of the + joyous rabble to the place of honour beside the Ruffler, where with vast + ceremony he was crowned King of the Game-Cocks; his meaner title being at + the same time solemnly cancelled and annulled, and a decree of banishment + from the gang pronounced against any who should thenceforth utter it. + </p> + <p> + All attempts to make the King serviceable to the troop had failed. He had + stubbornly refused to act; moreover, he was always trying to escape. + He had been thrust into an unwatched kitchen, the first day of his + return; he not only came forth empty-handed, but tried to rouse the + housemates. He was sent out with a tinker to help him at his work; he + would not work; moreover, he threatened the tinker with his own + soldering-iron; and finally both Hugo and the tinker found their hands + full with the mere matter of keeping his from getting away. He + delivered the thunders of his royalty upon the heads of all who hampered + his liberties or tried to force him to service. He was sent out, in + Hugo’s charge, in company with a slatternly woman and a diseased + baby, to beg; but the result was not encouraging—he declined to + plead for the mendicants, or be a party to their cause in any way. + </p> + <p> + Thus several days went by; and the miseries of this tramping life, and the + weariness and sordidness and meanness and vulgarity of it, became + gradually and steadily so intolerable to the captive that he began at last + to feel that his release from the hermit’s knife must prove only a + temporary respite from death, at best. + </p> + <p> + But at night, in his dreams, these things were forgotten, and he was on + his throne, and master again. This, of course, intensified the + sufferings of the awakening—so the mortifications of each succeeding + morning of the few that passed between his return to bondage and the + combat with Hugo, grew bitterer and bitterer, and harder and harder to + bear. + </p> + <p> + The morning after that combat, Hugo got up with a heart filled with + vengeful purposes against the King. He had two plans, in particular. + One was to inflict upon the lad what would be, to his proud spirit and + ‘imagined’ royalty, a peculiar humiliation; and if he failed + to accomplish this, his other plan was to put a crime of some kind upon + the King, and then betray him into the implacable clutches of the law. + </p> + <p> + In pursuance of the first plan, he purposed to put a ‘clime’ + upon the King’s leg; rightly judging that that would mortify him to + the last and perfect degree; and as soon as the clime should operate, he + meant to get Canty’s help, and <i>force</i> the King to expose his + leg in the highway and beg for alms. ’Clime’ was the + cant term for a sore, artificially created. To make a clime, the operator + made a paste or poultice of unslaked lime, soap, and the rust of old iron, + and spread it upon a piece of leather, which was then bound tightly upon + the leg. This would presently fret off the skin, and make the flesh + raw and angry-looking; blood was then rubbed upon the limb, which, being + fully dried, took on a dark and repulsive colour. Then a bandage of + soiled rags was put on in a cleverly careless way which would allow the + hideous ulcer to be seen, and move the compassion of the passer-by. {8} + </p> + <p> + Hugo got the help of the tinker whom the King had cowed with the + soldering-iron; they took the boy out on a tinkering tramp, and as soon as + they were out of sight of the camp they threw him down and the tinker held + him while Hugo bound the poultice tight and fast upon his leg. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link22-272" id="link22-272"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link22-272.jpg (139K)" src="images/22-272.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The King raged and stormed, and promised to hang the two the moment the + sceptre was in his hand again; but they kept a firm grip upon him and + enjoyed his impotent struggling and jeered at his threats. This + continued until the poultice began to bite; and in no long time its work + would have been perfected, if there had been no interruption. But + there was; for about this time the ‘slave’ who had made the + speech denouncing England’s laws, appeared on the scene, and put an + end to the enterprise, and stripped off the poultice and bandage. + </p> + <p> + The King wanted to borrow his deliverer’s cudgel and warm the + jackets of the two rascals on the spot; but the man said no, it would + bring trouble—leave the matter till night; the whole tribe being + together, then, the outside world would not venture to interfere or + interrupt. He marched the party back to camp and reported the affair + to the Ruffler, who listened, pondered, and then decided that the King + should not be again detailed to beg, since it was plain he was worthy of + something higher and better—wherefore, on the spot he promoted him + from the mendicant rank and appointed him to steal! + </p> + <p> + Hugo was overjoyed. He had already tried to make the King steal, and + failed; but there would be no more trouble of that sort, now, for of + course the King would not dream of defying a distinct command delivered + directly from head-quarters. So he planned a raid for that very + afternoon, purposing to get the King in the law’s grip in the course + of it; and to do it, too, with such ingenious strategy, that it should + seem to be accidental and unintentional; for the King of the Game-Cocks + was popular now, and the gang might not deal over-gently with an unpopular + member who played so serious a treachery upon him as the delivering him + over to the common enemy, the law. + </p> + <p> + Very well. All in good time Hugo strolled off to a neighbouring + village with his prey; and the two drifted slowly up and down one street + after another, the one watching sharply for a sure chance to achieve his + evil purpose, and the other watching as sharply for a chance to dart away + and get free of his infamous captivity for ever. + </p> + <p> + Both threw away some tolerably fair-looking opportunities; for both, in + their secret hearts, were resolved to make absolutely sure work this time, + and neither meant to allow his fevered desires to seduce him into any + venture that had much uncertainty about it. + </p> + <p> + Hugo’s chance came first. For at last a woman approached who + carried a fat package of some sort in a basket. Hugo’s eyes + sparkled with sinful pleasure as he said to himself, “Breath o’ + my life, an’ I can but put <i>that</i> upon him, ’tis good-den + and God keep thee, King of the Game-Cocks!” He waited and watched—outwardly + patient, but inwardly consuming with excitement—till the woman had + passed by, and the time was ripe; then said, in a low voice— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link22-274" id="link22-274"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link22-274.jpg (135K)" src="images/22-274.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Tarry here till I come again,” and darted stealthily after + the prey. + </p> + <p> + The King’s heart was filled with joy—he could make his escape, + now, if Hugo’s quest only carried him far enough away. + </p> + <p> + But he was to have no such luck. Hugo crept behind the woman, + snatched the package, and came running back, wrapping it in an old piece + of blanket which he carried on his arm. The hue and cry was raised + in a moment, by the woman, who knew her loss by the lightening of her + burden, although she had not seen the pilfering done. Hugo thrust + the bundle into the King’s hands without halting, saying— + </p> + <p> + “Now speed ye after me with the rest, and cry ‘Stop thief!’ + but mind ye lead them astray!” + </p> + <p> + The next moment Hugo turned a corner and darted down a crooked alley—and + in another moment or two he lounged into view again, looking innocent and + indifferent, and took up a position behind a post to watch results. + </p> + <p> + The insulted King threw the bundle on the ground; and the blanket fell + away from it just as the woman arrived, with an augmenting crowd at her + heels; she seized the King’s wrist with one hand, snatched up her + bundle with the other, and began to pour out a tirade of abuse upon the + boy while he struggled, without success, to free himself from her grip. + </p> + <p> + Hugo had seen enough—his enemy was captured and the law would get + him, now—so he slipped away, jubilant and chuckling, and wended + campwards, framing a judicious version of the matter to give to the + Ruffler’s crew as he strode along. + </p> + <p> + The King continued to struggle in the woman’s strong grasp, and now + and then cried out in vexation— + </p> + <p> + “Unhand me, thou foolish creature; it was not I that bereaved thee + of thy paltry goods.” + </p> + <p> + The crowd closed around, threatening the King and calling him names; a + brawny blacksmith in leather apron, and sleeves rolled to his elbows, made + a reach for him, saying he would trounce him well, for a lesson; but just + then a long sword flashed in the air and fell with convincing force upon + the man’s arm, flat side down, the fantastic owner of it remarking + pleasantly, at the same time— + </p> + <p> + “Marry, good souls, let us proceed gently, not with ill blood and + uncharitable words. This is matter for the law’s + consideration, not private and unofficial handling. Loose thy hold + from the boy, goodwife.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link22-276" id="link22-276"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link22-276.jpg (140K)" src="images/22-276.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The blacksmith averaged the stalwart soldier with a glance, then went + muttering away, rubbing his arm; the woman released the boy’s wrist + reluctantly; the crowd eyed the stranger unlovingly, but prudently closed + their mouths. The King sprang to his deliverer’s side, with + flushed cheeks and sparkling eyes, exclaiming— + </p> + <p> + “Thou hast lagged sorely, but thou comest in good season, now, Sir + Miles; carve me this rabble to rags!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c23" id="c23"></a> <a + name="link23-279" id="link23-279"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link23-279.jpg (41K)" src="images/23-279.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XXIII. The Prince a prisoner. + </p> + <p> + Hendon forced back a smile, and bent down and whispered in the King’s + ear— + </p> + <p> + “Softly, softly, my prince, wag thy tongue warily—nay, suffer + it not to wag at all. Trust in me—all shall go well in the + end.” Then he added to himself: “<i>Sir</i> Miles! + Bless me, I had totally forgot I was a knight! Lord, how marvellous + a thing it is, the grip his memory doth take upon his quaint and crazy + fancies! . . . An empty and foolish title is mine, and yet it is something + to have deserved it; for I think it is more honour to be held worthy to be + a spectre-knight in his Kingdom of Dreams and Shadows, than to be held + base enough to be an earl in some of the <i>real</i> kingdoms of this + world.” + </p> + <p> + The crowd fell apart to admit a constable, who approached and was about to + lay his hand upon the King’s shoulder, when Hendon said— + </p> + <p> + “Gently, good friend, withhold your hand—he shall go + peaceably; I am responsible for that. Lead on, we will follow.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link23-282" id="link23-282"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link23-282.jpg (90K)" src="images/23-282.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The officer led, with the woman and her bundle; Miles and the King + followed after, with the crowd at their heels. The King was inclined + to rebel; but Hendon said to him in a low voice— + </p> + <p> + “Reflect, Sire—your laws are the wholesome breath of your own + royalty; shall their source resist them, yet require the branches to + respect them? Apparently one of these laws has been broken; when the King + is on his throne again, can it ever grieve him to remember that when he + was seemingly a private person he loyally sank the king in the citizen and + submitted to its authority?” + </p> + <p> + “Thou art right; say no more; thou shalt see that whatsoever the + King of England requires a subject to suffer, under the law, he will + himself suffer while he holdeth the station of a subject.” + </p> + <p> + When the woman was called upon to testify before the justice of the peace, + she swore that the small prisoner at the bar was the person who had + committed the theft; there was none able to show the contrary, so the King + stood convicted. The bundle was now unrolled, and when the contents + proved to be a plump little dressed pig, the judge looked troubled, whilst + Hendon turned pale, and his body was thrilled with an electric shiver of + dismay; but the King remained unmoved, protected by his ignorance. The + judge meditated, during an ominous pause, then turned to the woman, with + the question— + </p> + <p> + “What dost thou hold this property to be worth?” + </p> + <p> + The woman courtesied and replied— + </p> + <p> + “Three shillings and eightpence, your worship—I could not + abate a penny and set forth the value honestly.” + </p> + <p> + The justice glanced around uncomfortably upon the crowd, then nodded to + the constable, and said— + </p> + <p> + “Clear the court and close the doors.” + </p> + <p> + It was done. None remained but the two officials, the accused, the + accuser, and Miles Hendon. This latter was rigid and colourless, and + on his forehead big drops of cold sweat gathered, broke and blended + together, and trickled down his face. The judge turned to the woman + again, and said, in a compassionate voice— + </p> + <p> + “’Tis a poor ignorant lad, and mayhap was driven hard by + hunger, for these be grievous times for the unfortunate; mark you, he hath + not an evil face—but when hunger driveth—Good woman! dost know + that when one steals a thing above the value of thirteenpence ha’penny + the law saith he shall <i>hang</i> for it?” + </p> + <p> + The little King started, wide-eyed with consternation, but controlled + himself and held his peace; but not so the woman. She sprang to her + feet, shaking with fright, and cried out— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link23-284" id="link23-284"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link23-284.jpg (143K)" src="images/23-284.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Oh, good lack, what have I done! God-a-mercy, I would not + hang the poor thing for the whole world! Ah, save me from this, your + worship—what shall I do, what <i>can</i> I do?” + </p> + <p> + The justice maintained his judicial composure, and simply said— + </p> + <p> + “Doubtless it is allowable to revise the value, since it is not yet + writ upon the record.” + </p> + <p> + “Then in God’s name call the pig eightpence, and heaven bless + the day that freed my conscience of this awesome thing!” + </p> + <p> + Miles Hendon forgot all decorum in his delight; and surprised the King and + wounded his dignity, by throwing his arms around him and hugging him. The + woman made her grateful adieux and started away with her pig; and when the + constable opened the door for her, he followed her out into the narrow + hall. The justice proceeded to write in his record book. Hendon, + always alert, thought he would like to know why the officer followed the + woman out; so he slipped softly into the dusky hall and listened. He + heard a conversation to this effect— + </p> + <p> + “It is a fat pig, and promises good eating; I will buy it of thee; + here is the eightpence.” + </p> + <p> + “Eightpence, indeed! Thou’lt do no such thing. It + cost me three shillings and eightpence, good honest coin of the last + reign, that old Harry that’s just dead ne’er touched or + tampered with. A fig for thy eightpence!” + </p> + <p> + “Stands the wind in that quarter? Thou wast under oath, and so + swore falsely when thou saidst the value was but eightpence. Come + straightway back with me before his worship, and answer for the crime!—and + then the lad will hang.” + </p> + <p> + “There, there, dear heart, say no more, I am content. Give me + the eightpence, and hold thy peace about the matter.” + </p> + <p> + The woman went off crying: Hendon slipped back into the court room, + and the constable presently followed, after hiding his prize in some + convenient place. The justice wrote a while longer, then read the + King a wise and kindly lecture, and sentenced him to a short imprisonment + in the common jail, to be followed by a public flogging. The + astounded King opened his mouth, and was probably going to order the good + judge to be beheaded on the spot; but he caught a warning sign from + Hendon, and succeeded in closing his mouth again before he lost anything + out of it. Hendon took him by the hand, now, made reverence to the + justice, and the two departed in the wake of the constable toward the + jail. The moment the street was reached, the inflamed monarch + halted, snatched away his hand, and exclaimed— + </p> + <p> + “Idiot, dost imagine I will enter a common jail <i>alive</i>?” + </p> + <p> + Hendon bent down and said, somewhat sharply— + </p> + <p> + “<i>Will</i> you trust in me? Peace! and forbear to worsen our + chances with dangerous speech. What God wills, will happen; thou + canst not hurry it, thou canst not alter it; therefore wait, and be + patient—’twill be time enow to rail or rejoice when what is to + happen has happened.” {1} + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c24" id="c24"></a> <a + name="link24-287" id="link24-287"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link24-287.jpg (51K)" src="images/24-287.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XXIV. The Escape. + </p> + <p> + The short winter day was nearly ended. The streets were deserted, + save for a few random stragglers, and these hurried straight along, with + the intent look of people who were only anxious to accomplish their + errands as quickly as possible, and then snugly house themselves from the + rising wind and the gathering twilight. They looked neither to the right + nor to the left; they paid no attention to our party, they did not even + seem to see them. Edward the Sixth wondered if the spectacle of a king on + his way to jail had ever encountered such marvellous indifference before. + By-and-by the constable arrived at a deserted market-square, and proceeded + to cross it. When he had reached the middle of it, Hendon laid his + hand upon his arm, and said in a low voice— + </p> + <p> + “Bide a moment, good sir, there is none in hearing, and I would say + a word to thee.” + </p> + <p> + “My duty forbids it, sir; prithee hinder me not, the night comes on.” + </p> + <p> + “Stay, nevertheless, for the matter concerns thee nearly. Turn + thy back a moment and seem not to see: <i>let this poor lad escape</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “This to me, sir! I arrest thee in—” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, be not too hasty. See thou be careful and commit no + foolish error,”—then he shut his voice down to a whisper, and + said in the man’s ear—“the pig thou hast purchased for + eightpence may cost thee thy neck, man!” + </p> + <p> + The poor constable, taken by surprise, was speechless, at first, then + found his tongue and fell to blustering and threatening; but Hendon was + tranquil, and waited with patience till his breath was spent; then said— + </p> + <p> + “I have a liking to thee, friend, and would not willingly see thee + come to harm. Observe, I heard it all—every word. I will + prove it to thee.” Then he repeated the conversation which the + officer and the woman had had together in the hall, word for word, and + ended with— + </p> + <p> + “There—have I set it forth correctly? Should not I be + able to set it forth correctly before the judge, if occasion required?” + </p> + <p> + The man was dumb with fear and distress, for a moment; then he rallied, + and said with forced lightness— + </p> + <p> + “’Tis making a mighty matter, indeed, out of a jest; I but + plagued the woman for mine amusement.” + </p> + <p> + “Kept you the woman’s pig for amusement?” + </p> + <p> + The man answered sharply— + </p> + <p> + “Nought else, good sir—I tell thee ’twas but a jest.” + </p> + <p> + “I do begin to believe thee,” said Hendon, with a perplexing + mixture of mockery and half-conviction in his tone; “but tarry thou + here a moment whilst I run and ask his worship—for nathless, he + being a man experienced in law, in jests, in—” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link24-290" id="link24-290"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link24-290.jpg (55K)" src="images/24-290.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + He was moving away, still talking; the constable hesitated, fidgeted, spat + out an oath or two, then cried out— + </p> + <p> + “Hold, hold, good sir—prithee wait a little—the judge! + Why, man, he hath no more sympathy with a jest than hath a dead + corpse!—come, and we will speak further. Ods body! I + seem to be in evil case—and all for an innocent and thoughtless + pleasantry. I am a man of family; and my wife and little ones—List + to reason, good your worship: what wouldst thou of me?” + </p> + <p> + “Only that thou be blind and dumb and paralytic whilst one may count + a hundred thousand—counting slowly,” said Hendon, with the + expression of a man who asks but a reasonable favour, and that a very + little one. + </p> + <p> + “It is my destruction!” said the constable despairingly. + "Ah, be reasonable, good sir; only look at this matter, on all its + sides, and see how mere a jest it is—how manifestly and how plainly + it is so. And even if one granted it were not a jest, it is a fault + so small that e’en the grimmest penalty it could call forth would be + but a rebuke and warning from the judge’s lips.” + </p> + <p> + Hendon replied with a solemnity which chilled the air about him— + </p> + <p> + “This jest of thine hath a name, in law,—wot you what it is?” + </p> + <p> + “I knew it not! Peradventure I have been unwise. I never + dreamed it had a name—ah, sweet heaven, I thought it was original.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it hath a name. In the law this crime is called Non + compos mentis lex talionis sic transit gloria mundi.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, my God!” + </p> + <p> + “And the penalty is death!” + </p> + <p> + “God be merciful to me a sinner!” + </p> + <p> + “By advantage taken of one in fault, in dire peril, and at thy + mercy, thou hast seized goods worth above thirteenpence ha’penny, + paying but a trifle for the same; and this, in the eye of the law, is + constructive barratry, misprision of treason, malfeasance in office, ad + hominem expurgatis in statu quo—and the penalty is death by the + halter, without ransom, commutation, or benefit of clergy.” + </p> + <p> + “Bear me up, bear me up, sweet sir, my legs do fail me! Be + thou merciful—spare me this doom, and I will turn my back and see + nought that shall happen.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link24-292" id="link24-292"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link24-292.jpg (157K)" src="images/24-292.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Good! now thou’rt wise and reasonable. And thou’lt + restore the pig?” + </p> + <p> + “I will, I will indeed—nor ever touch another, though heaven + send it and an archangel fetch it. Go—I am blind for thy sake—I + see nothing. I will say thou didst break in and wrest the prisoner + from my hands by force. It is but a crazy, ancient door—I will + batter it down myself betwixt midnight and the morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Do it, good soul, no harm will come of it; the judge hath a loving + charity for this poor lad, and will shed no tears and break no jailer’s + bones for his escape.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c25" id="c25"></a> <a + name="link25-293" id="link25-293"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link25-293.jpg (54K)" src="images/25-293.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XXV. Hendon Hall. + </p> + <p> + As soon as Hendon and the King were out of sight of the constable, his + Majesty was instructed to hurry to a certain place outside the town, and + wait there, whilst Hendon should go to the inn and settle his account. + Half an hour later the two friends were blithely jogging eastward on + Hendon’s sorry steeds. The King was warm and comfortable, now, + for he had cast his rags and clothed himself in the second-hand suit which + Hendon had bought on London Bridge. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link25-296" id="link25-296"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link25-296.jpg (148K)" src="images/25-296.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Hendon wished to guard against over-fatiguing the boy; he judged that hard + journeys, irregular meals, and illiberal measures of sleep would be bad + for his crazed mind; whilst rest, regularity, and moderate exercise would + be pretty sure to hasten its cure; he longed to see the stricken intellect + made well again and its diseased visions driven out of the tormented + little head; therefore he resolved to move by easy stages toward the home + whence he had so long been banished, instead of obeying the impulse of his + impatience and hurrying along night and day. + </p> + <p> + When he and the King had journeyed about ten miles, they reached a + considerable village, and halted there for the night, at a good inn. + The former relations were resumed; Hendon stood behind the King’s + chair, while he dined, and waited upon him; undressed him when he was + ready for bed; then took the floor for his own quarters, and slept athwart + the door, rolled up in a blanket. + </p> + <p> + The next day, and the day after, they jogged lazily along talking over the + adventures they had met since their separation, and mightily enjoying each + other’s narratives. Hendon detailed all his wide wanderings in + search of the King, and described how the archangel had led him a fool’s + journey all over the forest, and taken him back to the hut, finally, when + he found he could not get rid of him. Then—he said—the + old man went into the bedchamber and came staggering back looking + broken-hearted, and saying he had expected to find that the boy had + returned and laid down in there to rest, but it was not so. Hendon + had waited at the hut all day; hope of the King’s return died out, + then, and he departed upon the quest again. + </p> + <p> + “And old Sanctum Sanctorum <i>was</i> truly sorry your highness came + not back,” said Hendon; “I saw it in his face.” + </p> + <p> + “Marry I will never doubt <i>that</i>!” said the King—and + then told his own story; after which, Hendon was sorry he had not + destroyed the archangel. + </p> + <p> + During the last day of the trip, Hendon’s spirits were soaring. His + tongue ran constantly. He talked about his old father, and his + brother Arthur, and told of many things which illustrated their high and + generous characters; he went into loving frenzies over his Edith, and was + so glad-hearted that he was even able to say some gentle and brotherly + things about Hugh. He dwelt a deal on the coming meeting at Hendon + Hall; what a surprise it would be to everybody, and what an outburst of + thanksgiving and delight there would be. + </p> + <p> + It was a fair region, dotted with cottages and orchards, and the road led + through broad pasture lands whose receding expanses, marked with gentle + elevations and depressions, suggested the swelling and subsiding + undulations of the sea. In the afternoon the returning prodigal made + constant deflections from his course to see if by ascending some hillock + he might not pierce the distance and catch a glimpse of his home. At + last he was successful, and cried out excitedly— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link25-297" id="link25-297"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link25-297.jpg (108K)" src="images/25-297.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “There is the village, my Prince, and there is the Hall close by! + You may see the towers from here; and that wood there—that is my + father’s park. Ah, <i>now</i> thou’lt know what state and + grandeur be! A house with seventy rooms—think of that!—and + seven and twenty servants! A brave lodging for such as we, is it not + so? Come, let us speed—my impatience will not brook further + delay.” + </p> + <p> + All possible hurry was made; still, it was after three o’clock + before the village was reached. The travellers scampered through it, + Hendon’s tongue going all the time. "Here is the church—covered + with the same ivy—none gone, none added.” "Yonder is the + inn, the old Red Lion,—and yonder is the market-place.” "Here + is the Maypole, and here the pump—nothing is altered; nothing but + the people, at any rate; ten years make a change in people; some of these + I seem to know, but none know me.” So his chat ran on. The end + of the village was soon reached; then the travellers struck into a + crooked, narrow road, walled in with tall hedges, and hurried briskly + along it for half a mile, then passed into a vast flower garden through an + imposing gateway, whose huge stone pillars bore sculptured armorial + devices. A noble mansion was before them. + </p> + <p> + “Welcome to Hendon Hall, my King!” exclaimed Miles. "Ah, + ’tis a great day! My father and my brother, and the Lady Edith + will be so mad with joy that they will have eyes and tongue for none but + me in the first transports of the meeting, and so thou’lt seem but + coldly welcomed—but mind it not; ’twill soon seem otherwise; + for when I say thou art my ward, and tell them how costly is my love for + thee, thou’lt see them take thee to their breasts for Miles Hendon’s + sake, and make their house and hearts thy home for ever after!” + </p> + <p> + The next moment Hendon sprang to the ground before the great door, helped + the King down, then took him by the hand and rushed within. A few steps + brought him to a spacious apartment; he entered, seated the King with more + hurry than ceremony, then ran toward a young man who sat at a + writing-table in front of a generous fire of logs. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link25-299" id="link25-299"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link25-299.jpg (107K)" src="images/25-299.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Embrace me, Hugh,” he cried, “and say thou’rt + glad I am come again! and call our father, for home is not home till I + shall touch his hand, and see his face, and hear his voice once more!” + </p> + <p> + But Hugh only drew back, after betraying a momentary surprise, and bent a + grave stare upon the intruder—a stare which indicated somewhat of + offended dignity, at first, then changed, in response to some inward + thought or purpose, to an expression of marvelling curiosity, mixed with a + real or assumed compassion. Presently he said, in a mild voice— + </p> + <p> + “Thy wits seem touched, poor stranger; doubtless thou hast suffered + privations and rude buffetings at the world’s hands; thy looks and + dress betoken it. Whom dost thou take me to be?” + </p> + <p> + “Take thee? Prithee for whom else than whom thou art? I + take thee to be Hugh Hendon,” said Miles, sharply. + </p> + <p> + The other continued, in the same soft tone— + </p> + <p> + “And whom dost thou imagine thyself to be?” + </p> + <p> + “Imagination hath nought to do with it! Dost thou pretend thou + knowest me not for thy brother Miles Hendon?” + </p> + <p> + An expression of pleased surprise flitted across Hugh’s face, and he + exclaimed— + </p> + <p> + “What! thou art not jesting? can the dead come to life? God be + praised if it be so! Our poor lost boy restored to our arms after + all these cruel years! Ah, it seems too good to be true, it <i>is</i> + too good to be true—I charge thee, have pity, do not trifle with me! + Quick—come to the light—let me scan thee well!” + </p> + <p> + He seized Miles by the arm, dragged him to the window, and began to devour + him from head to foot with his eyes, turning him this way and that, and + stepping briskly around him and about him to prove him from all points of + view; whilst the returned prodigal, all aglow with gladness, smiled, + laughed, and kept nodding his head and saying— + </p> + <p> + “Go on, brother, go on, and fear not; thou’lt find nor limb + nor feature that cannot bide the test. Scour and scan me to thy + content, my good old Hugh—I am indeed thy old Miles, thy same old + Miles, thy lost brother, is’t not so? Ah, ’tis a great + day—I <i>said</i> ’twas a great day! Give me thy hand, + give me thy cheek—lord, I am like to die of very joy!” + </p> + <p> + He was about to throw himself upon his brother; but Hugh put up his hand + in dissent, then dropped his chin mournfully upon his breast, saying with + emotion— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link25-301" id="link25-301"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link25-301.jpg (97K)" src="images/25-301.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Ah, God of his mercy give me strength to bear this grievous + disappointment!” + </p> + <p> + Miles, amazed, could not speak for a moment; then he found his tongue, and + cried out— + </p> + <p> + “<i>What</i> disappointment? Am I not thy brother?” + </p> + <p> + Hugh shook his head sadly, and said— + </p> + <p> + “I pray heaven it may prove so, and that other eyes may find the + resemblances that are hid from mine. Alack, I fear me the letter + spoke but too truly.” + </p> + <p> + “What letter?” + </p> + <p> + “One that came from over sea, some six or seven years ago. It + said my brother died in battle.” + </p> + <p> + “It was a lie! Call thy father—he will know me.” + </p> + <p> + “One may not call the dead.” + </p> + <p> + “Dead?” Miles’s voice was subdued, and his lips + trembled. "My father dead!—oh, this is heavy news. Half + my new joy is withered now. Prithee let me see my brother Arthur—he + will know me; he will know me and console me.” + </p> + <p> + “He, also, is dead.” + </p> + <p> + “God be merciful to me, a stricken man! Gone,—both gone—the + worthy taken and the worthless spared, in me! Ah! I crave your + mercy!—do not say the Lady Edith—” + </p> + <p> + “Is dead? No, she lives.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, God be praised, my joy is whole again! Speed thee, + brother—let her come to me! An’ <i>she</i> say I am not + myself—but she will not; no, no, <i>she</i> will know me, I were a + fool to doubt it. Bring her—bring the old servants; they, too, will + know me.” + </p> + <p> + “All are gone but five—Peter, Halsey, David, Bernard, and + Margaret.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, Hugh left the room. Miles stood musing a while, then + began to walk the floor, muttering— + </p> + <p> + “The five arch-villains have survived the two-and-twenty leal and + honest—’tis an odd thing.” + </p> + <p> + He continued walking back and forth, muttering to himself; he had + forgotten the King entirely. By-and-by his Majesty said gravely, and + with a touch of genuine compassion, though the words themselves were + capable of being interpreted ironically— + </p> + <p> + “Mind not thy mischance, good man; there be others in the world + whose identity is denied, and whose claims are derided. Thou hast + company.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, my King,” cried Hendon, colouring slightly, “do not + thou condemn me—wait, and thou shalt see. I am no impostor—she + will say it; you shall hear it from the sweetest lips in England. I + an impostor? Why, I know this old hall, these pictures of my + ancestors, and all these things that are about us, as a child knoweth its + own nursery. Here was I born and bred, my lord; I speak the truth; I + would not deceive thee; and should none else believe, I pray thee do not + <i>thou</i> doubt me—I could not bear it.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not doubt thee,” said the King, with a childlike + simplicity and faith. + </p> + <p> + “I thank thee out of my heart!” exclaimed Hendon with a + fervency which showed that he was touched. The King added, with the + same gentle simplicity— + </p> + <p> + “Dost thou doubt <i>me</i>?” + </p> + <p> + A guilty confusion seized upon Hendon, and he was grateful that the door + opened to admit Hugh, at that moment, and saved him the necessity of + replying. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link25-303" id="link25-303"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link25-303.jpg (113K)" src="images/25-303.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + A beautiful lady, richly clothed, followed Hugh, and after her came + several liveried servants. The lady walked slowly, with her head + bowed and her eyes fixed upon the floor. The face was unspeakably + sad. Miles Hendon sprang forward, crying out— + </p> + <p> + “Oh, my Edith, my darling—” + </p> + <p> + But Hugh waved him back, gravely, and said to the lady— + </p> + <p> + “Look upon him. Do you know him?” + </p> + <p> + At the sound of Miles’s voice the woman had started slightly, and + her cheeks had flushed; she was trembling now. She stood still, + during an impressive pause of several moments; then slowly lifted up her + head and looked into Hendon’s eyes with a stony and frightened gaze; + the blood sank out of her face, drop by drop, till nothing remained but + the grey pallor of death; then she said, in a voice as dead as the face, + “I know him not!” and turned, with a moan and a stifled sob, + and tottered out of the room. + </p> + <p> + Miles Hendon sank into a chair and covered his face with his hands. After + a pause, his brother said to the servants— + </p> + <p> + “You have observed him. Do you know him?” + </p> + <p> + They shook their heads; then the master said— + </p> + <p> + “The servants know you not, sir. I fear there is some mistake. + You have seen that my wife knew you not.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link25-305" id="link25-305"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link25-305.jpg (121K)" src="images/25-305.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “Thy <i>wife</i>!” In an instant Hugh was pinned to the + wall, with an iron grip about his throat. "Oh, thou fox-hearted + slave, I see it all! Thou’st writ the lying letter thyself, + and my stolen bride and goods are its fruit. There—now get + thee gone, lest I shame mine honourable soldiership with the slaying of so + pitiful a mannikin!” + </p> + <p> + Hugh, red-faced, and almost suffocated, reeled to the nearest chair, and + commanded the servants to seize and bind the murderous stranger. They + hesitated, and one of them said— + </p> + <p> + “He is armed, Sir Hugh, and we are weaponless.” + </p> + <p> + “Armed! What of it, and ye so many? Upon him, I say!” + </p> + <p> + But Miles warned them to be careful what they did, and added— + </p> + <p> + “Ye know me of old—I have not changed; come on, an’ it + like you.” + </p> + <p> + This reminder did not hearten the servants much; they still held back. + </p> + <p> + “Then go, ye paltry cowards, and arm yourselves and guard the doors, + whilst I send one to fetch the watch!” said Hugh. He turned at + the threshold, and said to Miles, “You’ll find it to your + advantage to offend not with useless endeavours at escape.” + </p> + <p> + “Escape? Spare thyself discomfort, an’ that is all that + troubles thee. For Miles Hendon is master of Hendon Hall and all its + belongings. He will remain—doubt it not.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c26" id="c26"></a> <a + name="link26-307" id="link26-307"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link26-307.jpg (71K)" src="images/26-307.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XXVI. Disowned. + </p> + <p> + The King sat musing a few moments, then looked up and said— + </p> + <p> + “’Tis strange—most strange. I cannot account for + it.” + </p> + <p> + “No, it is not strange, my liege. I know him, and this conduct + is but natural. He was a rascal from his birth.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I spake not of <i>him</i>, Sir Miles.” + </p> + <p> + “Not of him? Then of what? What is it that is strange?” + </p> + <p> + “That the King is not missed.” + </p> + <p> + “How? Which? I doubt I do not understand.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed? Doth it not strike you as being passing strange that + the land is not filled with couriers and proclamations describing my + person and making search for me? Is it no matter for commotion and + distress that the Head of the State is gone; that I am vanished away and + lost?” + </p> + <p> + “Most true, my King, I had forgot.” Then Hendon sighed, + and muttered to himself, “Poor ruined mind—still busy with its + pathetic dream.” + </p> + <p> + “But I have a plan that shall right us both—I will write a + paper, in three tongues—Latin, Greek and English—and thou + shalt haste away with it to London in the morning. Give it to none + but my uncle, the Lord Hertford; when he shall see it, he will know and + say I wrote it. Then he will send for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Might it not be best, my Prince, that we wait here until I prove + myself and make my rights secure to my domains? I should be so much + the better able then to—” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link26-310" id="link26-310"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link26-310.jpg (134K)" src="images/26-310.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The King interrupted him imperiously— + </p> + <p> + “Peace! What are thy paltry domains, thy trivial interests, + contrasted with matters which concern the weal of a nation and the + integrity of a throne?” Then, he added, in a gentle voice, as + if he were sorry for his severity, “Obey, and have no fear; I will + right thee, I will make thee whole—yes, more than whole. I + shall remember, and requite.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he took the pen, and set himself to work. Hendon + contemplated him lovingly a while, then said to himself— + </p> + <p> + “An’ it were dark, I should think it <i>was</i> a king that + spoke; there’s no denying it, when the humour’s upon on him he + doth thunder and lighten like your true King; now where got he that trick? + See him scribble and scratch away contentedly at his meaningless + pot-hooks, fancying them to be Latin and Greek—and except my wit + shall serve me with a lucky device for diverting him from his purpose, I + shall be forced to pretend to post away to-morrow on this wild errand he + hath invented for me.” + </p> + <p> + The next moment Sir Miles’s thoughts had gone back to the recent + episode. So absorbed was he in his musings, that when the King presently + handed him the paper which he had been writing, he received it and + pocketed it without being conscious of the act. “How marvellous + strange she acted,” he muttered. "I think she knew me—and + I think she did <i>not</i> know me. These opinions do conflict, I perceive + it plainly; I cannot reconcile them, neither can I, by argument, dismiss + either of the two, or even persuade one to outweigh the other. The + matter standeth simply thus: she <i>must</i> have known my face, my + figure, my voice, for how could it be otherwise? Yet she <i>said</i>she + knew me not, and that is proof perfect, for she cannot lie. But stop—I + think I begin to see. Peradventure he hath influenced her, commanded her, + compelled her to lie. That is the solution. The riddle is + unriddled. She seemed dead with fear—yes, she was under his + compulsion. I will seek her; I will find her; now that he is away, + she will speak her true mind. She will remember the old times when + we were little playfellows together, and this will soften her heart, and + she will no more betray me, but will confess me. There is no + treacherous blood in her—no, she was always honest and true. She + has loved me, in those old days—this is my security; for whom one + has loved, one cannot betray.” + </p> + <p> + He stepped eagerly toward the door; at that moment it opened, and the Lady + Edith entered. She was very pale, but she walked with a firm step, + and her carriage was full of grace and gentle dignity. Her face was as sad + as before. + </p> + <p> + Miles sprang forward, with a happy confidence, to meet her, but she + checked him with a hardly perceptible gesture, and he stopped where he + was. She seated herself, and asked him to do likewise. Thus simply + did she take the sense of old comradeship out of him, and transform him + into a stranger and a guest. The surprise of it, the bewildering + unexpectedness of it, made him begin to question, for a moment, if he <i>was</i> + the person he was pretending to be, after all. The Lady Edith said— + </p> + <p> + “Sir, I have come to warn you. The mad cannot be persuaded out + of their delusions, perchance; but doubtless they may be persuaded to + avoid perils. I think this dream of yours hath the seeming of honest + truth to you, and therefore is not criminal—but do not tarry here + with it; for here it is dangerous.” She looked steadily into + Miles’s face a moment, then added, impressively, “It is the + more dangerous for that you <i>are</i> much like what our lost lad must + have grown to be if he had lived.” + </p> + <p> + “Heavens, madam, but I <i>am</i> he!” + </p> + <p> + “I truly think you think it, sir. I question not your honesty + in that; I but warn you, that is all. My husband is master in this + region; his power hath hardly any limit; the people prosper or starve, as + he wills. If you resembled not the man whom you profess to be, my husband + might bid you pleasure yourself with your dream in peace; but trust me, I + know him well; I know what he will do; he will say to all that you are but + a mad impostor, and straightway all will echo him.” She bent + upon Miles that same steady look once more, and added: "If you <i>were</i> + Miles Hendon, and he knew it and all the region knew it—consider + what I am saying, weigh it well—you would stand in the same peril, + your punishment would be no less sure; he would deny you and denounce you, + and none would be bold enough to give you countenance.” + </p> + <p> + “Most truly I believe it,” said Miles, bitterly. "The + power that can command one life-long friend to betray and disown another, + and be obeyed, may well look to be obeyed in quarters where bread and life + are on the stake and no cobweb ties of loyalty and honour are concerned.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link26-313" id="link26-313"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link26-313.jpg (133K)" src="images/26-313.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + A faint tinge appeared for a moment in the lady’s cheek, and she + dropped her eyes to the floor; but her voice betrayed no emotion when she + proceeded— + </p> + <p> + “I have warned you—I must still warn you—to go hence. + This man will destroy you, else. He is a tyrant who knows no + pity. I, who am his fettered slave, know this. Poor Miles, and + Arthur, and my dear guardian, Sir Richard, are free of him, and at rest: + better that you were with them than that you bide here in the + clutches of this miscreant. Your pretensions are a menace to his + title and possessions; you have assaulted him in his own house: you + are ruined if you stay. Go—do not hesitate. If you lack money, + take this purse, I beg of you, and bribe the servants to let you pass. Oh, + be warned, poor soul, and escape while you may.” + </p> + <p> + Miles declined the purse with a gesture, and rose up and stood before her. + </p> + <p> + “Grant me one thing,” he said. "Let your eyes rest upon + mine, so that I may see if they be steady. There—now answer + me. Am I Miles Hendon?” + </p> + <p> + “No. I know you not.” + </p> + <p> + “Swear it!” + </p> + <p> + The answer was low, but distinct— + </p> + <p> + “I swear.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, this passes belief!” + </p> + <p> + “Fly! Why will you waste the precious time? Fly, and + save yourself.” + </p> + <p> + At that moment the officers burst into the room, and a violent struggle + began; but Hendon was soon overpowered and dragged away. The King was + taken also, and both were bound and led to prison. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c27" id="c27"></a> <a + name="link27-315" id="link27-315"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link27-315.jpg (58K)" src="images/27-315.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XXVII. In Prison. + </p> + <p> + The cells were all crowded; so the two friends were chained in a large + room where persons charged with trifling offences were commonly kept. They + had company, for there were some twenty manacled and fettered prisoners + here, of both sexes and of varying ages,—an obscene and noisy gang. + The King chafed bitterly over the stupendous indignity thus put upon + his royalty, but Hendon was moody and taciturn. He was pretty + thoroughly bewildered; he had come home, a jubilant prodigal, expecting to + find everybody wild with joy over his return; and instead had got the cold + shoulder and a jail. The promise and the fulfilment differed so + widely that the effect was stunning; he could not decide whether it was + most tragic or most grotesque. He felt much as a man might who had + danced blithely out to enjoy a rainbow, and got struck by lightning. + </p> + <p> + But gradually his confused and tormenting thoughts settled down into some + sort of order, and then his mind centred itself upon Edith. He + turned her conduct over, and examined it in all lights, but he could not + make anything satisfactory out of it. Did she know him—or didn’t + she know him? It was a perplexing puzzle, and occupied him a long + time; but he ended, finally, with the conviction that she did know him, + and had repudiated him for interested reasons. He wanted to load her + name with curses now; but this name had so long been sacred to him that he + found he could not bring his tongue to profane it. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link27-318" id="link27-318"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link27-318.jpg (125K)" src="images/27-318.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Wrapped in prison blankets of a soiled and tattered condition, Hendon and + the King passed a troubled night. For a bribe the jailer had + furnished liquor to some of the prisoners; singing of ribald songs, + fighting, shouting, and carousing was the natural consequence. At + last, a while after midnight, a man attacked a woman and nearly killed her + by beating her over the head with his manacles before the jailer could + come to the rescue. The jailer restored peace by giving the man a + sound clubbing about the head and shoulders—then the carousing + ceased; and after that, all had an opportunity to sleep who did not mind + the annoyance of the moanings and groanings of the two wounded people. + </p> + <p> + During the ensuing week, the days and nights were of a monotonous sameness + as to events; men whose faces Hendon remembered more or less distinctly, + came, by day, to gaze at the ‘impostor’ and repudiate and + insult him; and by night the carousing and brawling went on with + symmetrical regularity. However, there was a change of incident at + last. The jailer brought in an old man, and said to him— + </p> + <p> + “The villain is in this room—cast thy old eyes about and see + if thou canst say which is he.” + </p> + <p> + Hendon glanced up, and experienced a pleasant sensation for the first time + since he had been in the jail. He said to himself, “This is + Blake Andrews, a servant all his life in my father’s family—a + good honest soul, with a right heart in his breast. That is, formerly. + But none are true now; all are liars. This man will know me—and + will deny me, too, like the rest.” + </p> + <p> + The old man gazed around the room, glanced at each face in turn, and + finally said— + </p> + <p> + “I see none here but paltry knaves, scum o’ the streets. + Which is he?” + </p> + <p> + The jailer laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Here,” he said; “scan this big animal, and grant me an + opinion.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link27-320" id="link27-320"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link27-320.jpg (112K)" src="images/27-320.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The old man approached, and looked Hendon over, long and earnestly, then + shook his head and said— + </p> + <p> + “Marry, <i>this</i> is no Hendon—nor ever was!” + </p> + <p> + “Right! Thy old eyes are sound yet. An’ I were Sir + Hugh, I would take the shabby carle and—” + </p> + <p> + The jailer finished by lifting himself a-tip-toe with an imaginary halter, + at the same time making a gurgling noise in his throat suggestive of + suffocation. The old man said, vindictively— + </p> + <p> + “Let him bless God an’ he fare no worse. An’ <i>I</i> + had the handling o’ the villain he should roast, or I am no true + man!” + </p> + <p> + The jailer laughed a pleasant hyena laugh, and said— + </p> + <p> + “Give him a piece of thy mind, old man—they all do it. Thou’lt + find it good diversion.” + </p> + <p> + Then he sauntered toward his ante-room and disappeared. The old man + dropped upon his knees and whispered— + </p> + <p> + “God be thanked, thou’rt come again, my master! I + believed thou wert dead these seven years, and lo, here thou art alive! + I knew thee the moment I saw thee; and main hard work it was to keep + a stony countenance and seem to see none here but tuppenny knaves and + rubbish o’ the streets. I am old and poor, Sir Miles; but say the + word and I will go forth and proclaim the truth though I be strangled for + it.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Hendon; “thou shalt not. It would ruin + thee, and yet help but little in my cause. But I thank thee, for + thou hast given me back somewhat of my lost faith in my kind.” + </p> + <p> + The old servant became very valuable to Hendon and the King; for he + dropped in several times a day to ‘abuse’ the former, and + always smuggled in a few delicacies to help out the prison bill of fare; + he also furnished the current news. Hendon reserved the dainties for + the King; without them his Majesty might not have survived, for he was not + able to eat the coarse and wretched food provided by the jailer. Andrews + was obliged to confine himself to brief visits, in order to avoid + suspicion; but he managed to impart a fair degree of information each time—information + delivered in a low voice, for Hendon’s benefit, and interlarded with + insulting epithets delivered in a louder voice for the benefit of other + hearers. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link27-321" id="link27-321"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link27-321.jpg (102K)" src="images/27-321.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + So, little by little, the story of the family came out. Arthur had + been dead six years. This loss, with the absence of news from + Hendon, impaired the father’s health; he believed he was going to + die, and he wished to see Hugh and Edith settled in life before he passed + away; but Edith begged hard for delay, hoping for Miles’s return; + then the letter came which brought the news of Miles’s death; the + shock prostrated Sir Richard; he believed his end was very near, and he + and Hugh insisted upon the marriage; Edith begged for and obtained a month’s + respite, then another, and finally a third; the marriage then took place + by the death-bed of Sir Richard. It had not proved a happy one. + It was whispered about the country that shortly after the nuptials + the bride found among her husband’s papers several rough and + incomplete drafts of the fatal letter, and had accused him of + precipitating the marriage—and Sir Richard’s death, too—by + a wicked forgery. Tales of cruelty to the Lady Edith and the servants were + to be heard on all hands; and since the father’s death Sir Hugh had + thrown off all soft disguises and become a pitiless master toward all who + in any way depended upon him and his domains for bread. + </p> + <p> + There was a bit of Andrew’s gossip which the King listened to with a + lively interest— + </p> + <p> + “There is rumour that the King is mad. But in charity forbear + to say <i>I</i> mentioned it, for ’tis death to speak of it, they + say.” + </p> + <p> + His Majesty glared at the old man and said— + </p> + <p> + “The King is <i>not</i> mad, good man—and thou’lt find + it to thy advantage to busy thyself with matters that nearer concern thee + than this seditious prattle.” + </p> + <p> + “What doth the lad mean?” said Andrews, surprised at this + brisk assault from such an unexpected quarter. Hendon gave him a + sign, and he did not pursue his question, but went on with his budget— + </p> + <p> + “The late King is to be buried at Windsor in a day or two—the + 16th of the month—and the new King will be crowned at Westminster + the 20th.” + </p> + <p> + “Methinks they must needs find him first,” muttered his + Majesty; then added, confidently, “but they will look to that—and + so also shall I.” + </p> + <p> + “In the name of—” + </p> + <p> + But the old man got no further—a warning sign from Hendon checked + his remark. He resumed the thread of his gossip— + </p> + <p> + “Sir Hugh goeth to the coronation—and with grand hopes. He + confidently looketh to come back a peer, for he is high in favour with the + Lord Protector.” + </p> + <p> + “What Lord Protector?” asked his Majesty. + </p> + <p> + “His Grace the Duke of Somerset.” + </p> + <p> + “What Duke of Somerset?” + </p> + <p> + “Marry, there is but one—Seymour, Earl of Hertford.” + </p> + <p> + The King asked sharply— + </p> + <p> + “Since when is <i>he</i> a duke, and Lord Protector?” + </p> + <p> + “Since the last day of January.” + </p> + <p> + “And prithee who made him so?” + </p> + <p> + “Himself and the Great Council—with help of the King.” + </p> + <p> + His Majesty started violently. "The <i>King</i>!” he cried. + “<i>What</i> king, good sir?” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link27-323" id="link27-323"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link27-323.jpg (114K)" src="images/27-323.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “What king, indeed! (God-a-mercy, what aileth the boy?) Sith + we have but one, ’tis not difficult to answer—his most sacred + Majesty King Edward the Sixth—whom God preserve! Yea, and a + dear and gracious little urchin is he, too; and whether he be mad or no—and + they say he mendeth daily—his praises are on all men’s lips; + and all bless him, likewise, and offer prayers that he may be spared to + reign long in England; for he began humanely with saving the old Duke of + Norfolk’s life, and now is he bent on destroying the cruellest of + the laws that harry and oppress the people.” + </p> + <p> + This news struck his Majesty dumb with amazement, and plunged him into so + deep and dismal a reverie that he heard no more of the old man’s + gossip. He wondered if the ‘little urchin’ was the beggar-boy + whom he left dressed in his own garments in the palace. It did not + seem possible that this could be, for surely his manners and speech would + betray him if he pretended to be the Prince of Wales—then he would + be driven out, and search made for the true prince. Could it be that + the Court had set up some sprig of the nobility in his place? No, + for his uncle would not allow that—he was all-powerful and could and + would crush such a movement, of course. The boy’s musings + profited him nothing; the more he tried to unriddle the mystery the more + perplexed he became, the more his head ached, and the worse he slept. + His impatience to get to London grew hourly, and his captivity + became almost unendurable. + </p> + <p> + Hendon’s arts all failed with the King—he could not be + comforted; but a couple of women who were chained near him succeeded + better. Under their gentle ministrations he found peace and learned a + degree of patience. He was very grateful, and came to love them + dearly and to delight in the sweet and soothing influence of their + presence. He asked them why they were in prison, and when they said + they were Baptists, he smiled, and inquired— + </p> + <p> + “Is that a crime to be shut up for in a prison? Now I grieve, + for I shall lose ye—they will not keep ye long for such a little + thing.” + </p> + <p> + They did not answer; and something in their faces made him uneasy. He + said, eagerly— + </p> + <p> + “You do not speak; be good to me, and tell me—there will be no + other punishment? Prithee tell me there is no fear of that.” + </p> + <p> + They tried to change the topic, but his fears were aroused, and he pursued + it— + </p> + <p> + “Will they scourge thee? No, no, they would not be so cruel! + Say they would not. Come, they <i>will</i> not, will they?” + </p> + <p> + The women betrayed confusion and distress, but there was no avoiding an + answer, so one of them said, in a voice choked with emotion— + </p> + <p> + “Oh, thou’lt break our hearts, thou gentle spirit!—God + will help us to bear our—” + </p> + <p> + “It is a confession!” the King broke in. "Then they <i>will</i> + scourge thee, the stony-hearted wretches! But oh, thou must not + weep, I cannot bear it. Keep up thy courage—I shall come to my + own in time to save thee from this bitter thing, and I will do it!” + </p> + <p> + When the King awoke in the morning, the women were gone. + </p> + <p> + “They are saved!” he said, joyfully; then added, despondently, + “but woe is me!—for they were my comforters.” + </p> + <p> + Each of them had left a shred of ribbon pinned to his clothing, in token + of remembrance. He said he would keep these things always; and that + soon he would seek out these dear good friends of his and take them under + his protection. + </p> + <p> + Just then the jailer came in with some subordinates, and commanded that + the prisoners be conducted to the jail-yard. The King was overjoyed—it + would be a blessed thing to see the blue sky and breathe the fresh air + once more. He fretted and chafed at the slowness of the officers, + but his turn came at last, and he was released from his staple and ordered + to follow the other prisoners with Hendon. + </p> + <p> + The court or quadrangle was stone-paved, and open to the sky. The + prisoners entered it through a massive archway of masonry, and were placed + in file, standing, with their backs against the wall. A rope was stretched + in front of them, and they were also guarded by their officers. It was a + chill and lowering morning, and a light snow which had fallen during the + night whitened the great empty space and added to the general dismalness + of its aspect. Now and then a wintry wind shivered through the place and + sent the snow eddying hither and thither. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link27-326" id="link27-326"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link27-326.jpg (53K)" src="images/27-326.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + In the centre of the court stood two women, chained to posts. A + glance showed the King that these were his good friends. He + shuddered, and said to himself, “Alack, they are not gone free, as I + had thought. To think that such as these should know the lash!—in + England! Ay, there’s the shame of it—not in + Heathennesse, Christian England! They will be scourged; and I, whom + they have comforted and kindly entreated, must look on and see the great + wrong done; it is strange, so strange, that I, the very source of power in + this broad realm, am helpless to protect them. But let these miscreants + look well to themselves, for there is a day coming when I will require of + them a heavy reckoning for this work. For every blow they strike + now, they shall feel a hundred then.” + </p> + <p> + A great gate swung open, and a crowd of citizens poured in. They + flocked around the two women, and hid them from the King’s view. A + clergyman entered and passed through the crowd, and he also was hidden. + The King now heard talking, back and forth, as if questions were + being asked and answered, but he could not make out what was said. Next + there was a deal of bustle and preparation, and much passing and repassing + of officials through that part of the crowd that stood on the further side + of the women; and whilst this proceeded a deep hush gradually fell upon + the people. + </p> + <p> + Now, by command, the masses parted and fell aside, and the King saw a + spectacle that froze the marrow in his bones. Faggots had been piled + about the two women, and a kneeling man was lighting them! + </p> + <p> + The women bowed their heads, and covered their faces with their hands; the + yellow flames began to climb upward among the snapping and crackling + faggots, and wreaths of blue smoke to stream away on the wind; the + clergyman lifted his hands and began a prayer—just then two young + girls came flying through the great gate, uttering piercing screams, and + threw themselves upon the women at the stake. Instantly they were + torn away by the officers, and one of them was kept in a tight grip, but + the other broke loose, saying she would die with her mother; and before + she could be stopped she had flung her arms about her mother’s neck + again. She was torn away once more, and with her gown on fire. + Two or three men held her, and the burning portion of her gown was + snatched off and thrown flaming aside, she struggling all the while to + free herself, and saying she would be alone in the world, now; and begging + to be allowed to die with her mother. Both the girls screamed + continually, and fought for freedom; but suddenly this tumult was drowned + under a volley of heart-piercing shrieks of mortal agony—the King + glanced from the frantic girls to the stake, then turned away and leaned + his ashen face against the wall, and looked no more. He said, + “That which I have seen, in that one little moment, will never go + out from my memory, but will abide there; and I shall see it all the days, + and dream of it all the nights, till I die. Would God I had been + blind!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link27-328" id="link27-328"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link27-328.jpg (118K)" src="images/27-328.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Hendon was watching the King. He said to himself, with satisfaction, + “His disorder mendeth; he hath changed, and groweth gentler. If + he had followed his wont, he would have stormed at these varlets, and said + he was King, and commanded that the women be turned loose unscathed. + Soon his delusion will pass away and be forgotten, and his poor mind + will be whole again. God speed the day!” + </p> + <p> + That same day several prisoners were brought in to remain over night, who + were being conveyed, under guard, to various places in the kingdom, to + undergo punishment for crimes committed. The King conversed with + these—he had made it a point, from the beginning, to instruct + himself for the kingly office by questioning prisoners whenever the + opportunity offered—and the tale of their woes wrung his heart. + One of them was a poor half-witted woman who had stolen a yard or + two of cloth from a weaver—she was to be hanged for it. Another + was a man who had been accused of stealing a horse; he said the proof had + failed, and he had imagined that he was safe from the halter; but no—he + was hardly free before he was arraigned for killing a deer in the King’s + park; this was proved against him, and now he was on his way to the + gallows. There was a tradesman’s apprentice whose case + particularly distressed the King; this youth said he found a hawk, one + evening, that had escaped from its owner, and he took it home with him, + imagining himself entitled to it; but the court convicted him of stealing + it, and sentenced him to death. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link27-329" id="link27-329"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link27-329.jpg (60K)" src="images/27-329.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The King was furious over these inhumanities, and wanted Hendon to break + jail and fly with him to Westminster, so that he could mount his throne + and hold out his sceptre in mercy over these unfortunate people and save + their lives. "Poor child,” sighed Hendon, “these woeful + tales have brought his malady upon him again; alack, but for this evil + hap, he would have been well in a little time.” + </p> + <p> + Among these prisoners was an old lawyer—a man with a strong face and + a dauntless mien. Three years past, he had written a pamphlet + against the Lord Chancellor, accusing him of injustice, and had been + punished for it by the loss of his ears in the pillory, and degradation + from the bar, and in addition had been fined 3,000 pounds and sentenced to + imprisonment for life. Lately he had repeated his offence; and in + consequence was now under sentence to lose <i>what remained of his ears</i>, + pay a fine of 5,000 pounds, be branded on both cheeks, and remain in + prison for life. + </p> + <p> + “These be honourable scars,” he said, and turned back his grey + hair and showed the mutilated stubs of what had once been his ears. + </p> + <p> + The King’s eye burned with passion. He said— + </p> + <p> + “None believe in me—neither wilt thou. But no matter—within + the compass of a month thou shalt be free; and more, the laws that have + dishonoured thee, and shamed the English name, shall be swept from the + statute books. The world is made wrong; kings should go to school to + their own laws, at times, and so learn mercy.” {1} + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c28" id="c28"></a> <a + name="link28-331" id="link28-331"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link28-331.jpg (48K)" src="images/28-331.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XXVIII. The sacrifice. + </p> + <p> + Meantime Miles was growing sufficiently tired of confinement and inaction. + But now his trial came on, to his great gratification, and he + thought he could welcome any sentence provided a further imprisonment + should not be a part of it. But he was mistaken about that. He + was in a fine fury when he found himself described as a ‘sturdy + vagabond’ and sentenced to sit two hours in the stocks for bearing + that character and for assaulting the master of Hendon Hall. His + pretensions as to brothership with his prosecutor, and rightful heirship + to the Hendon honours and estates, were left contemptuously unnoticed, as + being not even worth examination. + </p> + <p> + He raged and threatened on his way to punishment, but it did no good; he + was snatched roughly along by the officers, and got an occasional cuff, + besides, for his irreverent conduct. + </p> + <p> + The King could not pierce through the rabble that swarmed behind; so he + was obliged to follow in the rear, remote from his good friend and + servant. The King had been nearly condemned to the stocks himself + for being in such bad company, but had been let off with a lecture and a + warning, in consideration of his youth. When the crowd at last + halted, he flitted feverishly from point to point around its outer rim, + hunting a place to get through; and at last, after a deal of difficulty + and delay, succeeded. There sat his poor henchman in the degrading + stocks, the sport and butt of a dirty mob—he, the body servant of + the King of England! Edward had heard the sentence pronounced, but + he had not realised the half that it meant. His anger began to rise + as the sense of this new indignity which had been put upon him sank home; + it jumped to summer heat, the next moment, when he saw an egg sail through + the air and crush itself against Hendon’s cheek, and heard the crowd + roar its enjoyment of the episode. He sprang across the open circle + and confronted the officer in charge, crying— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link28-334" id="link28-334"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link28-334.jpg (119K)" src="images/28-334.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “For shame! This is my servant—set him free! I am + the—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, peace!” exclaimed Hendon, in a panic, “thou’lt + destroy thyself. Mind him not, officer, he is mad.” + </p> + <p> + “Give thyself no trouble as to the matter of minding him, good man, + I have small mind to mind him; but as to teaching him somewhat, to that I + am well inclined.” He turned to a subordinate and said, + “Give the little fool a taste or two of the lash, to mend his + manners.” + </p> + <p> + “Half a dozen will better serve his turn,” suggested Sir Hugh, + who had ridden up, a moment before, to take a passing glance at the + proceedings. + </p> + <p> + The King was seized. He did not even struggle, so paralysed was he + with the mere thought of the monstrous outrage that was proposed to be + inflicted upon his sacred person. History was already defiled with + the record of the scourging of an English king with whips—it was an + intolerable reflection that he must furnish a duplicate of that shameful + page. He was in the toils, there was no help for him; he must either + take this punishment or beg for its remission. Hard conditions; he + would take the stripes—a king might do that, but a king could not + beg. + </p> + <p> + But meantime, Miles Hendon was resolving the difficulty. "Let the + child go,” said he; “ye heartless dogs, do ye not see how + young and frail he is? Let him go—I will take his lashes.” + </p> + <p> + “Marry, a good thought—and thanks for it,” said Sir + Hugh, his face lighting with a sardonic satisfaction. "Let the + little beggar go, and give this fellow a dozen in his place—an + honest dozen, well laid on.” The King was in the act of entering a + fierce protest, but Sir Hugh silenced him with the potent remark, “Yes, + speak up, do, and free thy mind—only, mark ye, that for each word + you utter he shall get six strokes the more.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link28-336" id="link28-336"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link28-336.jpg (85K)" src="images/28-336.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Hendon was removed from the stocks, and his back laid bare; and whilst the + lash was applied the poor little King turned away his face and allowed + unroyal tears to channel his cheeks unchecked. “Ah, brave good + heart,” he said to himself, “this loyal deed shall never + perish out of my memory. I will not forget it—and neither + shall <i>they</i>!” he added, with passion. Whilst he mused, + his appreciation of Hendon’s magnanimous conduct grew to greater and + still greater dimensions in his mind, and so also did his gratefulness for + it. Presently he said to himself, “Who saves his prince from + wounds and possible death—and this he did for me—performs high + service; but it is little—it is nothing—oh, less than nothing!—when + ’tis weighed against the act of him who saves his prince from <i>shame</i>!” + </p> + <p> + Hendon made no outcry under the scourge, but bore the heavy blows with + soldierly fortitude. This, together with his redeeming the boy by + taking his stripes for him, compelled the respect of even that forlorn and + degraded mob that was gathered there; and its gibes and hootings died + away, and no sound remained but the sound of the falling blows. The + stillness that pervaded the place, when Hendon found himself once more in + the stocks, was in strong contrast with the insulting clamour which had + prevailed there so little a while before. The King came softly to + Hendon’s side, and whispered in his ear— + </p> + <p> + “Kings cannot ennoble thee, thou good, great soul, for One who is + higher than kings hath done that for thee; but a king can confirm thy + nobility to men.” He picked up the scourge from the ground, + touched Hendon’s bleeding shoulders lightly with it, and whispered, + “Edward of England dubs thee Earl!” + </p> + <p> + Hendon was touched. The water welled to his eyes, yet at the same + time the grisly humour of the situation and circumstances so undermined + his gravity that it was all he could do to keep some sign of his inward + mirth from showing outside. To be suddenly hoisted, naked and gory, + from the common stocks to the Alpine altitude and splendour of an Earldom, + seemed to him the last possibility in the line of the grotesque. He + said to himself, “Now am I finely tinselled, indeed! The + spectre-knight of the Kingdom of Dreams and Shadows is become a + spectre-earl—a dizzy flight for a callow wing! An’ this + go on, I shall presently be hung like a very maypole with fantastic gauds + and make-believe honours. But I shall value them, all valueless as + they are, for the love that doth bestow them. Better these poor mock + dignities of mine, that come unasked, from a clean hand and a right + spirit, than real ones bought by servility from grudging and interested + power.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link28-337" id="link28-337"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link28-337.jpg (124K)" src="images/28-337.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The dreaded Sir Hugh wheeled his horse about, and as he spurred away, the + living wall divided silently to let him pass, and as silently closed + together again. And so remained; nobody went so far as to venture a + remark in favour of the prisoner, or in compliment to him; but no matter—the + absence of abuse was a sufficient homage in itself. A late comer who + was not posted as to the present circumstances, and who delivered a sneer + at the ‘impostor,’ and was in the act of following it with a + dead cat, was promptly knocked down and kicked out, without any words, and + then the deep quiet resumed sway once more. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c29" id="c29"></a> <a + name="link29-339" id="link29-339"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link29-339.jpg (53K)" src="images/29-339.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XXIX. To London. + </p> + <p> + When Hendon’s term of service in the stocks was finished, he was + released and ordered to quit the region and come back no more. His sword + was restored to him, and also his mule and his donkey. He mounted and rode + off, followed by the King, the crowd opening with quiet respectfulness to + let them pass, and then dispersing when they were gone. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link29-342" id="link29-342"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link29-342.jpg (142K)" src="images/29-342.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Hendon was soon absorbed in thought. There were questions of high + import to be answered. What should he do? Whither should he + go? Powerful help must be found somewhere, or he must relinquish his + inheritance and remain under the imputation of being an impostor besides. + Where could he hope to find this powerful help? Where, indeed! + It was a knotty question. By-and-by a thought occurred to him which + pointed to a possibility—the slenderest of slender possibilities, + certainly, but still worth considering, for lack of any other that + promised anything at all. He remembered what old Andrews had said + about the young King’s goodness and his generous championship of the + wronged and unfortunate. Why not go and try to get speech of him and + beg for justice? Ah, yes, but could so fantastic a pauper get + admission to the august presence of a monarch? Never mind—let that + matter take care of itself; it was a bridge that would not need to be + crossed till he should come to it. He was an old campaigner, and + used to inventing shifts and expedients: no doubt he would be able + to find a way. Yes, he would strike for the capital. Maybe his + father’s old friend Sir Humphrey Marlow would help him—‘good + old Sir Humphrey, Head Lieutenant of the late King’s kitchen, or + stables, or something’—Miles could not remember just what or + which. Now that he had something to turn his energies to, a + distinctly defined object to accomplish, the fog of humiliation and + depression which had settled down upon his spirits lifted and blew away, + and he raised his head and looked about him. He was surprised to see + how far he had come; the village was away behind him. The King was + jogging along in his wake, with his head bowed; for he, too, was deep in + plans and thinkings. A sorrowful misgiving clouded Hendon’s + new-born cheerfulness: would the boy be willing to go again to a + city where, during all his brief life, he had never known anything but + ill-usage and pinching want? But the question must be asked; it + could not be avoided; so Hendon reined up, and called out— + </p> + <p> + “I had forgotten to inquire whither we are bound. Thy + commands, my liege!” + </p> + <p> + “To London!” + </p> + <p> + Hendon moved on again, mightily contented with the answer—but + astounded at it too. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link29-343" id="link29-343"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link29-343.jpg (131K)" src="images/29-343.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The whole journey was made without an adventure of importance. But it + ended with one. About ten o’clock on the night of the 19th of + February they stepped upon London Bridge, in the midst of a writhing, + struggling jam of howling and hurrahing people, whose beer-jolly faces + stood out strongly in the glare from manifold torches—and at that + instant the decaying head of some former duke or other grandee tumbled + down between them, striking Hendon on the elbow and then bounding off + among the hurrying confusion of feet. So evanescent and unstable are men’s + works in this world!—the late good King is but three weeks dead and + three days in his grave, and already the adornments which he took such + pains to select from prominent people for his noble bridge are falling. + A citizen stumbled over that head, and drove his own head into the + back of somebody in front of him, who turned and knocked down the first + person that came handy, and was promptly laid out himself by that person’s + friend. It was the right ripe time for a free fight, for the + festivities of the morrow—Coronation Day—were already + beginning; everybody was full of strong drink and patriotism; within five + minutes the free fight was occupying a good deal of ground; within ten or + twelve it covered an acre of so, and was become a riot. By this time + Hendon and the King were hopelessly separated from each other and lost in + the rush and turmoil of the roaring masses of humanity. And so we + leave them. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c30" id="c30"></a> <a + name="link30-345" id="link30-345"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link30-345.jpg (47K)" src="images/30-345.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XXX. Tom’s progress. + </p> + <p> + Whilst the true King wandered about the land poorly clad, poorly fed, + cuffed and derided by tramps one while, herding with thieves and murderers + in a jail another, and called idiot and impostor by all impartially, the + mock King Tom Canty enjoyed quite a different experience. + </p> + <p> + When we saw him last, royalty was just beginning to have a bright side for + him. This bright side went on brightening more and more every day: + in a very little while it was become almost all sunshine and + delightfulness. He lost his fears; his misgivings faded out and + died; his embarrassments departed, and gave place to an easy and confident + bearing. He worked the whipping-boy mine to ever-increasing profit. + </p> + <p> + He ordered my Lady Elizabeth and my Lady Jane Grey into his presence when + he wanted to play or talk, and dismissed them when he was done with them, + with the air of one familiarly accustomed to such performances. It + no longer confused him to have these lofty personages kiss his hand at + parting. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link30-348" id="link30-348"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link30-348.jpg (92K)" src="images/30-348.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + He came to enjoy being conducted to bed in state at night, and dressed + with intricate and solemn ceremony in the morning. It came to be a + proud pleasure to march to dinner attended by a glittering procession of + officers of state and gentlemen-at-arms; insomuch, indeed, that he doubled + his guard of gentlemen-at-arms, and made them a hundred. He liked to + hear the bugles sounding down the long corridors, and the distant voices + responding, “Way for the King!” + </p> + <p> + He even learned to enjoy sitting in throned state in council, and seeming + to be something more than the Lord Protector’s mouthpiece. He liked + to receive great ambassadors and their gorgeous trains, and listen to the + affectionate messages they brought from illustrious monarchs who called + him brother. O happy Tom Canty, late of Offal Court! + </p> + <p> + He enjoyed his splendid clothes, and ordered more: he found his four + hundred servants too few for his proper grandeur, and trebled them. The + adulation of salaaming courtiers came to be sweet music to his ears. + He remained kind and gentle, and a sturdy and determined champion of + all that were oppressed, and he made tireless war upon unjust laws: yet + upon occasion, being offended, he could turn upon an earl, or even a duke, + and give him a look that would make him tremble. Once, when his + royal ‘sister,’ the grimly holy Lady Mary, set herself to + reason with him against the wisdom of his course in pardoning so many + people who would otherwise be jailed, or hanged, or burned, and reminded + him that their august late father’s prisons had sometimes contained + as high as sixty thousand convicts at one time, and that during his + admirable reign he had delivered seventy-two thousand thieves and robbers + over to death by the executioner, {9} the boy was filled with generous + indignation, and commanded her to go to her closet, and beseech God to + take away the stone that was in her breast, and give her a human heart. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link30-349" id="link30-349"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link30-349.jpg (94K)" src="images/30-349.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Did Tom Canty never feel troubled about the poor little rightful prince + who had treated him so kindly, and flown out with such hot zeal to avenge + him upon the insolent sentinel at the palace-gate? Yes; his first royal + days and nights were pretty well sprinkled with painful thoughts about the + lost prince, and with sincere longings for his return, and happy + restoration to his native rights and splendours. But as time wore + on, and the prince did not come, Tom’s mind became more and more + occupied with his new and enchanting experiences, and by little and little + the vanished monarch faded almost out of his thoughts; and finally, when + he did intrude upon them at intervals, he was become an unwelcome spectre, + for he made Tom feel guilty and ashamed. + </p> + <p> + Tom’s poor mother and sisters travelled the same road out of his + mind. At first he pined for them, sorrowed for them, longed to see them, + but later, the thought of their coming some day in their rags and dirt, + and betraying him with their kisses, and pulling him down from his lofty + place, and dragging him back to penury and degradation and the slums, made + him shudder. At last they ceased to trouble his thoughts almost + wholly. And he was content, even glad: for, whenever their + mournful and accusing faces did rise before him now, they made him feel + more despicable than the worms that crawl. + </p> + <p> + At midnight of the 19th of February, Tom Canty was sinking to sleep in his + rich bed in the palace, guarded by his loyal vassals, and surrounded by + the pomps of royalty, a happy boy; for tomorrow was the day appointed for + his solemn crowning as King of England. At that same hour, Edward, the + true king, hungry and thirsty, soiled and draggled, worn with travel, and + clothed in rags and shreds—his share of the results of the riot—was + wedged in among a crowd of people who were watching with deep interest + certain hurrying gangs of workmen who streamed in and out of Westminster + Abbey, busy as ants: they were making the last preparation for the + royal coronation. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c31" id="c31"></a> <a + name="link31-351" id="link31-351"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link31-351.jpg (68K)" src="images/31-351.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a name="link31-353" id="link31-353"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link31-353.jpg (134K)" src="images/31-353.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XXXI. The Recognition procession. + </p> + <p> + When Tom Canty awoke the next morning, the air was heavy with a thunderous + murmur: all the distances were charged with it. It was music + to him; for it meant that the English world was out in its strength to + give loyal welcome to the great day. + </p> + <p> + Presently Tom found himself once more the chief figure in a wonderful + floating pageant on the Thames; for by ancient custom the ‘recognition + procession’ through London must start from the Tower, and he was + bound thither. + </p> + <p> + When he arrived there, the sides of the venerable fortress seemed suddenly + rent in a thousand places, and from every rent leaped a red tongue of + flame and a white gush of smoke; a deafening explosion followed, which + drowned the shoutings of the multitude, and made the ground tremble; the + flame-jets, the smoke, and the explosions, were repeated over and over + again with marvellous celerity, so that in a few moments the old Tower + disappeared in the vast fog of its own smoke, all but the very top of the + tall pile called the White Tower; this, with its banners, stood out above + the dense bank of vapour as a mountain-peak projects above a cloud-rack. + </p> + <p> + Tom Canty, splendidly arrayed, mounted a prancing war-steed, whose rich + trappings almost reached to the ground; his ‘uncle,’ the Lord + Protector Somerset, similarly mounted, took place in his rear; the King’s + Guard formed in single ranks on either side, clad in burnished armour; + after the Protector followed a seemingly interminable procession of + resplendent nobles attended by their vassals; after these came the lord + mayor and the aldermanic body, in crimson velvet robes, and with their + gold chains across their breasts; and after these the officers and members + of all the guilds of London, in rich raiment, and bearing the showy + banners of the several corporations. Also in the procession, as a + special guard of honour through the city, was the Ancient and Honourable + Artillery Company—an organisation already three hundred years old at + that time, and the only military body in England possessing the privilege + (which it still possesses in our day) of holding itself independent of the + commands of Parliament. It was a brilliant spectacle, and was hailed + with acclamations all along the line, as it took its stately way through + the packed multitudes of citizens. The chronicler says, ‘The King, + as he entered the city, was received by the people with prayers, + welcomings, cries, and tender words, and all signs which argue an earnest + love of subjects toward their sovereign; and the King, by holding up his + glad countenance to such as stood afar off, and most tender language to + those that stood nigh his Grace, showed himself no less thankful to + receive the people’s goodwill than they to offer it. To all + that wished him well, he gave thanks. To such as bade “God + save his Grace,” he said in return, “God save you all!” + and added that “he thanked them with all his heart.” + Wonderfully transported were the people with the loving answers and + gestures of their King.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link31-355" id="link31-355"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link31-355.jpg (40K)" src="images/31-355.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + In Fenchurch Street a ‘fair child, in costly apparel,’ stood + on a stage to welcome his Majesty to the city. The last verse of his + greeting was in these words— + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + ‘Welcome, O King! as much as hearts can think;<br /> Welcome, + again, as much as tongue can tell,—<br /> Welcome to joyous + tongues, and hearts that will not shrink: <br /> God thee preserve, we + pray, and wish thee ever well.’ + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + The people burst forth in a glad shout, repeating with one voice what the + child had said. Tom Canty gazed abroad over the surging sea of eager + faces, and his heart swelled with exultation; and he felt that the one + thing worth living for in this world was to be a king, and a nation’s + idol. Presently he caught sight, at a distance, of a couple of his + ragged Offal Court comrades—one of them the lord high admiral in his + late mimic court, the other the first lord of the bedchamber in the same + pretentious fiction; and his pride swelled higher than ever. Oh, if + they could only recognise him now! What unspeakable glory it would + be, if they could recognise him, and realise that the derided mock king of + the slums and back alleys was become a real King, with illustrious dukes + and princes for his humble menials, and the English world at his feet! + But he had to deny himself, and choke down his desire, for such a + recognition might cost more than it would come to: so he turned away + his head, and left the two soiled lads to go on with their shoutings and + glad adulations, unsuspicious of whom it was they were lavishing them + upon. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link31-356" id="link31-356"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link31-356.jpg (195K)" src="images/31-356.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Every now and then rose the cry, “A largess! a largess!” and + Tom responded by scattering a handful of bright new coins abroad for the + multitude to scramble for. + </p> + <p> + The chronicler says, ‘At the upper end of Gracechurch Street, before + the sign of the Eagle, the city had erected a gorgeous arch, beneath which + was a stage, which stretched from one side of the street to the other. + This was an historical pageant, representing the King’s immediate + progenitors. There sat Elizabeth of York in the midst of an immense + white rose, whose petals formed elaborate furbelows around her; by her + side was Henry VII., issuing out of a vast red rose, disposed in the same + manner: the hands of the royal pair were locked together, and the + wedding-ring ostentatiously displayed. From the red and white roses + proceeded a stem, which reached up to a second stage, occupied by Henry + VIII., issuing from a red and white rose, with the effigy of the new King’s + mother, Jane Seymour, represented by his side. One branch sprang + from this pair, which mounted to a third stage, where sat the effigy of + Edward VI. himself, enthroned in royal majesty; and the whole pageant was + framed with wreaths of roses, red and white.’ + </p> + <p> + This quaint and gaudy spectacle so wrought upon the rejoicing people, that + their acclamations utterly smothered the small voice of the child whose + business it was to explain the thing in eulogistic rhymes. But Tom + Canty was not sorry; for this loyal uproar was sweeter music to him than + any poetry, no matter what its quality might be. Whithersoever Tom + turned his happy young face, the people recognised the exactness of his + effigy’s likeness to himself, the flesh and blood counterpart; and + new whirlwinds of applause burst forth. + </p> + <p> + The great pageant moved on, and still on, under one triumphal arch after + another, and past a bewildering succession of spectacular and symbolical + tableaux, each of which typified and exalted some virtue, or talent, or + merit, of the little King’s. ’Throughout the whole of + Cheapside, from every penthouse and window, hung banners and streamers; + and the richest carpets, stuffs, and cloth-of-gold tapestried the streets—specimens + of the great wealth of the stores within; and the splendour of this + thoroughfare was equalled in the other streets, and in some even + surpassed.’ + </p> + <p> + “And all these wonders and these marvels are to welcome me—me!” + murmured Tom Canty. + </p> + <p> + The mock King’s cheeks were flushed with excitement, his eyes were + flashing, his senses swam in a delirium of pleasure. At this point, + just as he was raising his hand to fling another rich largess, he caught + sight of a pale, astounded face, which was strained forward out of the + second rank of the crowd, its intense eyes riveted upon him. A + sickening consternation struck through him; he recognised his mother! and + up flew his hand, palm outward, before his eyes—that old involuntary + gesture, born of a forgotten episode, and perpetuated by habit. In + an instant more she had torn her way out of the press, and past the + guards, and was at his side. She embraced his leg, she covered it + with kisses, she cried, “O my child, my darling!” lifting + toward him a face that was transfigured with joy and love. The same + instant an officer of the King’s Guard snatched her away with a + curse, and sent her reeling back whence she came with a vigorous impulse + from his strong arm. The words “I do not know you, woman!” + were falling from Tom Canty’s lips when this piteous thing occurred; + but it smote him to the heart to see her treated so; and as she turned for + a last glimpse of him, whilst the crowd was swallowing her from his sight, + she seemed so wounded, so broken-hearted, that a shame fell upon him which + consumed his pride to ashes, and withered his stolen royalty. His + grandeurs were stricken valueless: they seemed to fall away from him like + rotten rags. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link31-359" id="link31-359"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link31-359.jpg (164K)" src="images/31-359.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The procession moved on, and still on, through ever augmenting splendours + and ever augmenting tempests of welcome; but to Tom Canty they were as if + they had not been. He neither saw nor heard. Royalty had lost + its grace and sweetness; its pomps were become a reproach. Remorse + was eating his heart out. He said, “Would God I were free of + my captivity!” + </p> + <p> + He had unconsciously dropped back into the phraseology of the first days + of his compulsory greatness. + </p> + <p> + The shining pageant still went winding like a radiant and interminable + serpent down the crooked lanes of the quaint old city, and through the + huzzaing hosts; but still the King rode with bowed head and vacant eyes, + seeing only his mother’s face and that wounded look in it. + </p> + <p> + “Largess, largess!” The cry fell upon an unheeding ear. + </p> + <p> + “Long live Edward of England!” It seemed as if the earth + shook with the explosion; but there was no response from the King. He + heard it only as one hears the thunder of the surf when it is blown to the + ear out of a great distance, for it was smothered under another sound + which was still nearer, in his own breast, in his accusing conscience—a + voice which kept repeating those shameful words, “I do not know you, + woman!” + </p> + <p> + The words smote upon the King’s soul as the strokes of a funeral + bell smite upon the soul of a surviving friend when they remind him of + secret treacheries suffered at his hands by him that is gone. + </p> + <p> + New glories were unfolded at every turning; new wonders, new marvels, + sprang into view; the pent clamours of waiting batteries were released; + new raptures poured from the throats of the waiting multitudes: but + the King gave no sign, and the accusing voice that went moaning through + his comfortless breast was all the sound he heard. + </p> + <p> + By-and-by the gladness in the faces of the populace changed a little, and + became touched with a something like solicitude or anxiety: an + abatement in the volume of the applause was observable too. The Lord + Protector was quick to notice these things: he was as quick to + detect the cause. He spurred to the King’s side, bent low in + his saddle, uncovered, and said— + </p> + <p> + “My liege, it is an ill time for dreaming. The people observe + thy downcast head, thy clouded mien, and they take it for an omen. Be + advised: unveil the sun of royalty, and let it shine upon these + boding vapours, and disperse them. Lift up thy face, and smile upon + the people.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link31-361" id="link31-361"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link31-361.jpg (78K)" src="images/31-361.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + So saying, the Duke scattered a handful of coins to right and left, then + retired to his place. The mock King did mechanically as he had been + bidden. His smile had no heart in it, but few eyes were near enough + or sharp enough to detect that. The noddings of his plumed head as + he saluted his subjects were full of grace and graciousness; the largess + which he delivered from his hand was royally liberal: so the people’s + anxiety vanished, and the acclamations burst forth again in as mighty a + volume as before. + </p> + <p> + Still once more, a little before the progress was ended, the Duke was + obliged to ride forward, and make remonstrance. He whispered— + </p> + <p> + “O dread sovereign! shake off these fatal humours; the eyes of the + world are upon thee.” Then he added with sharp annoyance, + “Perdition catch that crazy pauper! ’twas she that hath + disturbed your Highness.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link31-362" id="link31-362"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link31-362.jpg (119K)" src="images/31-362.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The gorgeous figure turned a lustreless eye upon the Duke, and said in a + dead voice— + </p> + <p> + “She was my mother!” + </p> + <p> + “My God!” groaned the Protector as he reined his horse + backward to his post, “the omen was pregnant with prophecy. He + is gone mad again!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c32" id="c32"></a> <a + name="link32-363" id="link32-363"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link32-363.jpg (51K)" src="images/32-363.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XXXII. Coronation Day. + </p> + <p> + Let us go backward a few hours, and place ourselves in Westminster Abbey, + at four o’clock in the morning of this memorable Coronation Day. + We are not without company; for although it is still night, we find + the torch-lighted galleries already filling up with people who are well + content to sit still and wait seven or eight hours till the time shall + come for them to see what they may not hope to see twice in their lives—the + coronation of a King. Yes, London and Westminster have been astir + ever since the warning guns boomed at three o’clock, and already + crowds of untitled rich folk who have bought the privilege of trying to + find sitting-room in the galleries are flocking in at the entrances + reserved for their sort. + </p> + <p> + The hours drag along tediously enough. All stir has ceased for some + time, for every gallery has long ago been packed. We may sit, now, + and look and think at our leisure. We have glimpses, here and there + and yonder, through the dim cathedral twilight, of portions of many + galleries and balconies, wedged full with other people, the other portions + of these galleries and balconies being cut off from sight by intervening + pillars and architectural projections. We have in view the whole of + the great north transept—empty, and waiting for England’s + privileged ones. We see also the ample area or platform, carpeted + with rich stuffs, whereon the throne stands. The throne occupies the + centre of the platform, and is raised above it upon an elevation of four + steps. Within the seat of the throne is enclosed a rough flat rock—the + stone of Scone—which many generations of Scottish kings sat on to be + crowned, and so it in time became holy enough to answer a like purpose for + English monarchs. Both the throne and its footstool are covered with + cloth of gold. + </p> + <p> + Stillness reigns, the torches blink dully, the time drags heavily. But at + last the lagging daylight asserts itself, the torches are extinguished, + and a mellow radiance suffuses the great spaces. All features of the noble + building are distinct now, but soft and dreamy, for the sun is lightly + veiled with clouds. + </p> + <p> + At seven o’clock the first break in the drowsy monotony occurs; for + on the stroke of this hour the first peeress enters the transept, clothed + like Solomon for splendour, and is conducted to her appointed place by an + official clad in satins and velvets, whilst a duplicate of him gathers up + the lady’s long train, follows after, and, when the lady is seated, + arranges the train across her lap for her. He then places her + footstool according to her desire, after which he puts her coronet where + it will be convenient to her hand when the time for the simultaneous + coroneting of the nobles shall arrive. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link32-366" id="link32-366"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link32-366.jpg (53K)" src="images/32-366.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + By this time the peeresses are flowing in in a glittering stream, and the + satin-clad officials are flitting and glinting everywhere, seating them + and making them comfortable. The scene is animated enough now. + There is stir and life, and shifting colour everywhere. After + a time, quiet reigns again; for the peeresses are all come and are all in + their places, a solid acre or such a matter, of human flowers, resplendent + in variegated colours, and frosted like a Milky Way with diamonds. There + are all ages here: brown, wrinkled, white-haired dowagers who are able to + go back, and still back, down the stream of time, and recall the crowning + of Richard III. and the troublous days of that old forgotten age; and + there are handsome middle-aged dames; and lovely and gracious young + matrons; and gentle and beautiful young girls, with beaming eyes and fresh + complexions, who may possibly put on their jewelled coronets awkwardly + when the great time comes; for the matter will be new to them, and their + excitement will be a sore hindrance. Still, this may not happen, for the + hair of all these ladies has been arranged with a special view to the + swift and successful lodging of the crown in its place when the signal + comes. + </p> + <p> + We have seen that this massed array of peeresses is sown thick with + diamonds, and we also see that it is a marvellous spectacle—but now + we are about to be astonished in earnest. About nine, the clouds + suddenly break away and a shaft of sunshine cleaves the mellow atmosphere, + and drifts slowly along the ranks of ladies; and every rank it touches + flames into a dazzling splendour of many-coloured fires, and we tingle to + our finger-tips with the electric thrill that is shot through us by the + surprise and the beauty of the spectacle! Presently a special envoy + from some distant corner of the Orient, marching with the general body of + foreign ambassadors, crosses this bar of sunshine, and we catch our + breath, the glory that streams and flashes and palpitates about him is so + overpowering; for he is crusted from head to heel with gems, and his + slightest movement showers a dancing radiance all around him. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link32-368" id="link32-368"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link32-368.jpg (158K)" src="images/32-368.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Let us change the tense for convenience. The time drifted along—one + hour—two hours—two hours and a half; then the deep booming of + artillery told that the King and his grand procession had arrived at last; + so the waiting multitude rejoiced. All knew that a further delay + must follow, for the King must be prepared and robed for the solemn + ceremony; but this delay would be pleasantly occupied by the assembling of + the peers of the realm in their stately robes. These were conducted + ceremoniously to their seats, and their coronets placed conveniently at + hand; and meanwhile the multitude in the galleries were alive with + interest, for most of them were beholding for the first time, dukes, + earls, and barons, whose names had been historical for five hundred years. + When all were finally seated, the spectacle from the galleries and + all coigns of vantage was complete; a gorgeous one to look upon and to + remember. + </p> + <p> + Now the robed and mitred great heads of the church, and their attendants, + filed in upon the platform and took their appointed places; these were + followed by the Lord Protector and other great officials, and these again + by a steel-clad detachment of the Guard. + </p> + <p> + There was a waiting pause; then, at a signal, a triumphant peal of music + burst forth, and Tom Canty, clothed in a long robe of cloth of gold, + appeared at a door, and stepped upon the platform. The entire + multitude rose, and the ceremony of the Recognition ensued. + </p> + <p> + Then a noble anthem swept the Abbey with its rich waves of sound; and thus + heralded and welcomed, Tom Canty was conducted to the throne. The + ancient ceremonies went on, with impressive solemnity, whilst the audience + gazed; and as they drew nearer and nearer to completion, Tom Canty grew + pale, and still paler, and a deep and steadily deepening woe and + despondency settled down upon his spirits and upon his remorseful heart. + </p> + <p> + At last the final act was at hand. The Archbishop of Canterbury + lifted up the crown of England from its cushion and held it out over the + trembling mock-King’s head. In the same instant a + rainbow-radiance flashed along the spacious transept; for with one impulse + every individual in the great concourse of nobles lifted a coronet and + poised it over his or her head—and paused in that attitude. + </p> + <p> + A deep hush pervaded the Abbey. At this impressive moment, a + startling apparition intruded upon the scene—an apparition observed + by none in the absorbed multitude, until it suddenly appeared, moving up + the great central aisle. It was a boy, bareheaded, ill shod, and + clothed in coarse plebeian garments that were falling to rags. He + raised his hand with a solemnity which ill comported with his soiled and + sorry aspect, and delivered this note of warning— + </p> + <p> + “I forbid you to set the crown of England upon that forfeited head. + I am the King!” + </p> + <p> + In an instant several indignant hands were laid upon the boy; but in the + same instant Tom Canty, in his regal vestments, made a swift step forward, + and cried out in a ringing voice— + </p> + <p> + “Loose him and forbear! He <i>is</i> the King!” + </p> + <p> + A sort of panic of astonishment swept the assemblage, and they partly rose + in their places and stared in a bewildered way at one another and at the + chief figures in this scene, like persons who wondered whether they were + awake and in their senses, or asleep and dreaming. The Lord + Protector was as amazed as the rest, but quickly recovered himself, and + exclaimed in a voice of authority— + </p> + <p> + “Mind not his Majesty, his malady is upon him again—seize the + vagabond!” + </p> + <p> + He would have been obeyed, but the mock-King stamped his foot and cried + out— + </p> + <p> + “On your peril! Touch him not, he is the King!” + </p> + <p> + The hands were withheld; a paralysis fell upon the house; no one moved, no + one spoke; indeed, no one knew how to act or what to say, in so strange + and surprising an emergency. While all minds were struggling to + right themselves, the boy still moved steadily forward, with high port and + confident mien; he had never halted from the beginning; and while the + tangled minds still floundered helplessly, he stepped upon the platform, + and the mock-King ran with a glad face to meet him; and fell on his knees + before him and said— + </p> + <p> + “Oh, my lord the King, let poor Tom Canty be first to swear fealty + to thee, and say, ‘Put on thy crown and enter into thine own again!’” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link32-370" id="link32-370"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link32-370.jpg (121K)" src="images/32-370.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The Lord Protector’s eye fell sternly upon the new-comer’s + face; but straightway the sternness vanished away, and gave place to an + expression of wondering surprise. This thing happened also to the + other great officers. They glanced at each other, and retreated a + step by a common and unconscious impulse. The thought in each mind + was the same: "What a strange resemblance!” + </p> + <p> + The Lord Protector reflected a moment or two in perplexity, then he said, + with grave respectfulness— + </p> + <p> + “By your favour, sir, I desire to ask certain questions which—” + </p> + <p> + “I will answer them, my lord.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke asked him many questions about the Court, the late King, the + prince, the princesses—the boy answered them correctly and without + hesitating. He described the rooms of state in the palace, the late + King’s apartments, and those of the Prince of Wales. + </p> + <p> + It was strange; it was wonderful; yes, it was unaccountable—so all + said that heard it. The tide was beginning to turn, and Tom Canty’s + hopes to run high, when the Lord Protector shook his head and said— + </p> + <p> + “It is true it is most wonderful—but it is no more than our + lord the King likewise can do.” This remark, and this + reference to himself as still the King, saddened Tom Canty, and he felt + his hopes crumbling from under him. "These are not <i>proofs</i>,” + added the Protector. + </p> + <p> + The tide was turning very fast now, very fast indeed—but in the + wrong direction; it was leaving poor Tom Canty stranded on the throne, and + sweeping the other out to sea. The Lord Protector communed with + himself—shook his head—the thought forced itself upon him, + “It is perilous to the State and to us all, to entertain so fateful + a riddle as this; it could divide the nation and undermine the throne.” + He turned and said— + </p> + <p> + “Sir Thomas, arrest this—No, hold!” His face + lighted, and he confronted the ragged candidate with this question— + </p> + <p> + “Where lieth the Great Seal? Answer me this truly, and the + riddle is unriddled; for only he that was Prince of Wales <i>can</i> so + answer! On so trivial a thing hang a throne and a dynasty!” + </p> + <p> + It was a lucky thought, a happy thought. That it was so considered + by the great officials was manifested by the silent applause that shot + from eye to eye around their circle in the form of bright approving + glances. Yes, none but the true prince could dissolve the stubborn mystery + of the vanished Great Seal—this forlorn little impostor had been + taught his lesson well, but here his teachings must fail, for his teacher + himself could not answer <i>that</i> question—ah, very good, very + good indeed; now we shall be rid of this troublesome and perilous business + in short order! And so they nodded invisibly and smiled inwardly with + satisfaction, and looked to see this foolish lad stricken with a palsy of + guilty confusion. How surprised they were, then, to see nothing of the + sort happen—how they marvelled to hear him answer up promptly, in a + confident and untroubled voice, and say— + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link32-373" id="link32-373"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link32-373.jpg (201K)" src="images/32-373.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “There is nought in this riddle that is difficult.” Then, + without so much as a by-your-leave to anybody, he turned and gave this + command, with the easy manner of one accustomed to doing such things: + “My Lord St. John, go you to my private cabinet in the palace—for + none knoweth the place better than you—and, close down to the floor, + in the left corner remotest from the door that opens from the + ante-chamber, you shall find in the wall a brazen nail-head; press upon it + and a little jewel-closet will fly open which not even you do know of—no, + nor any soul else in all the world but me and the trusty artisan that did + contrive it for me. The first thing that falleth under your eye will be + the Great Seal—fetch it hither.” + </p> + <p> + All the company wondered at this speech, and wondered still more to see + the little mendicant pick out this peer without hesitancy or apparent fear + of mistake, and call him by name with such a placidly convincing air of + having known him all his life. The peer was almost surprised into + obeying. He even made a movement as if to go, but quickly recovered + his tranquil attitude and confessed his blunder with a blush. Tom + Canty turned upon him and said, sharply— + </p> + <p> + “Why dost thou hesitate? Hast not heard the King’s + command? Go!” + </p> + <p> + The Lord St. John made a deep obeisance—and it was observed that it + was a significantly cautious and non-committal one, it not being delivered + at either of the kings, but at the neutral ground about half-way between + the two—and took his leave. + </p> + <p> + Now began a movement of the gorgeous particles of that official group + which was slow, scarcely perceptible, and yet steady and persistent—a + movement such as is observed in a kaleidoscope that is turned slowly, + whereby the components of one splendid cluster fall away and join + themselves to another—a movement which, little by little, in the + present case, dissolved the glittering crowd that stood about Tom Canty + and clustered it together again in the neighbourhood of the new-comer. + Tom Canty stood almost alone. Now ensued a brief season of deep + suspense and waiting—during which even the few faint hearts still + remaining near Tom Canty gradually scraped together courage enough to + glide, one by one, over to the majority. So at last Tom Canty, in + his royal robes and jewels, stood wholly alone and isolated from the + world, a conspicuous figure, occupying an eloquent vacancy. + </p> + <p> + Now the Lord St. John was seen returning. As he advanced up the + mid-aisle the interest was so intense that the low murmur of conversation + in the great assemblage died out and was succeeded by a profound hush, a + breathless stillness, through which his footfalls pulsed with a dull and + distant sound. Every eye was fastened upon him as he moved along. + He reached the platform, paused a moment, then moved toward Tom + Canty with a deep obeisance, and said— + </p> + <p> + “Sire, the Seal is not there!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link32-375" id="link32-375"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link32-375.jpg (77K)" src="images/32-375.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + A mob does not melt away from the presence of a plague-patient with more + haste than the band of pallid and terrified courtiers melted away from the + presence of the shabby little claimant of the Crown. In a moment he + stood all alone, without friend or supporter, a target upon which was + concentrated a bitter fire of scornful and angry looks. The Lord + Protector called out fiercely— + </p> + <p> + “Cast the beggar into the street, and scourge him through the town—the + paltry knave is worth no more consideration!” + </p> + <p> + Officers of the guard sprang forward to obey, but Tom Canty waved them off + and said— + </p> + <p> + “Back! Whoso touches him perils his life!” + </p> + <p> + The Lord Protector was perplexed in the last degree. He said to the + Lord St. John— + </p> + <p> + “Searched you well?—but it boots not to ask that. It + doth seem passing strange. Little things, trifles, slip out of one’s + ken, and one does not think it matter for surprise; but how so bulky a + thing as the Seal of England can vanish away and no man be able to get + track of it again—a massy golden disk—” + </p> + <p> + Tom Canty, with beaming eyes, sprang forward and shouted— + </p> + <p> + “Hold, that is enough! Was it round?—and thick?—and + had it letters and devices graved upon it?—yes? Oh, <i>now</i> + I know what this Great Seal is that there’s been such worry and + pother about. An’ ye had described it to me, ye could have had it + three weeks ago. Right well I know where it lies; but it was not I + that put it there—first.” + </p> + <p> + “Who, then, my liege?” asked the Lord Protector. + </p> + <p> + “He that stands there—the rightful King of England. And + he shall tell you himself where it lies—then you will believe he + knew it of his own knowledge. Bethink thee, my King—spur thy + memory—it was the last, the very <i>last</i> thing thou didst that + day before thou didst rush forth from the palace, clothed in my rags, to + punish the soldier that insulted me.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link32-377" id="link32-377"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link32-377.jpg (85K)" src="images/32-377.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + A silence ensued, undisturbed by a movement or a whisper, and all eyes + were fixed upon the new-comer, who stood, with bent head and corrugated + brow, groping in his memory among a thronging multitude of valueless + recollections for one single little elusive fact, which, found, would seat + him upon a throne—unfound, would leave him as he was, for good and + all—a pauper and an outcast. Moment after moment passed—the + moments built themselves into minutes—still the boy struggled + silently on, and gave no sign. But at last he heaved a sigh, shook + his head slowly, and said, with a trembling lip and in a despondent voice— + </p> + <p> + “I call the scene back—all of it—but the Seal hath no + place in it.” He paused, then looked up, and said with gentle + dignity, “My lords and gentlemen, if ye will rob your rightful + sovereign of his own for lack of this evidence which he is not able to + furnish, I may not stay ye, being powerless. But—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, folly, oh, madness, my King!” cried Tom Canty, in a + panic, “wait!—think! Do not give up!—the cause is + not lost! Nor <i>shall</i> be, neither! List to what I say—follow + every word—I am going to bring that morning back again, every hap + just as it happened. We talked—I told you of my sisters, Nan + and Bet—ah, yes, you remember that; and about mine old grandam—and + the rough games of the lads of Offal Court—yes, you remember these + things also; very well, follow me still, you shall recall everything. + You gave me food and drink, and did with princely courtesy send away + the servants, so that my low breeding might not shame me before them—ah, + yes, this also you remember.” + </p> + <p> + As Tom checked off his details, and the other boy nodded his head in + recognition of them, the great audience and the officials stared in + puzzled wonderment; the tale sounded like true history, yet how could this + impossible conjunction between a prince and a beggar-boy have come about? + Never was a company of people so perplexed, so interested, and so + stupefied, before. + </p> + <p> + “For a jest, my prince, we did exchange garments. Then we + stood before a mirror; and so alike were we that both said it seemed as if + there had been no change made—yes, you remember that. Then you + noticed that the soldier had hurt my hand—look! here it is, I cannot + yet even write with it, the fingers are so stiff. At this your + Highness sprang up, vowing vengeance upon that soldier, and ran towards + the door—you passed a table—that thing you call the Seal lay + on that table—you snatched it up and looked eagerly about, as if for + a place to hide it—your eye caught sight of—” + </p> + <p> + “There, ’tis sufficient!—and the good God be thanked!” + exclaimed the ragged claimant, in a mighty excitement. "Go, my good + St. John—in an arm-piece of the Milanese armour that hangs on the + wall, thou’lt find the Seal!” + </p> + <p> + “Right, my King! right!” cried Tom Canty; “<i>Now</i> + the sceptre of England is thine own; and it were better for him that would + dispute it that he had been born dumb! Go, my Lord St. John, give + thy feet wings!” + </p> + <p> + The whole assemblage was on its feet now, and well-nigh out of its mind + with uneasiness, apprehension, and consuming excitement. On the + floor and on the platform a deafening buzz of frantic conversation burst + forth, and for some time nobody knew anything or heard anything or was + interested in anything but what his neighbour was shouting into his ear, + or he was shouting into his neighbour’s ear. Time—nobody + knew how much of it—swept by unheeded and unnoted. At last a + sudden hush fell upon the house, and in the same moment St. John appeared + upon the platform, and held the Great Seal aloft in his hand. Then + such a shout went up— + </p> + <p> + “Long live the true King!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link32-379" id="link32-379"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link32-379.jpg (169K)" src="images/32-379.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + For five minutes the air quaked with shouts and the crash of musical + instruments, and was white with a storm of waving handkerchiefs; and + through it all a ragged lad, the most conspicuous figure in England, + stood, flushed and happy and proud, in the centre of the spacious + platform, with the great vassals of the kingdom kneeling around him. + </p> + <p> + Then all rose, and Tom Canty cried out— + </p> + <p> + “Now, O my King, take these regal garments back, and give poor Tom, + thy servant, his shreds and remnants again.” + </p> + <p> + The Lord Protector spoke up— + </p> + <p> + “Let the small varlet be stripped and flung into the Tower.” + </p> + <p> + But the new King, the true King, said— + </p> + <p> + “I will not have it so. But for him I had not got my crown + again—none shall lay a hand upon him to harm him. And as for + thee, my good uncle, my Lord Protector, this conduct of thine is not + grateful toward this poor lad, for I hear he hath made thee a duke”—the + Protector blushed—“yet he was not a king; wherefore what is + thy fine title worth now? To-morrow you shall sue to me, <i>through + him</i>, for its confirmation, else no duke, but a simple earl, shalt thou + remain.” + </p> + <p> + Under this rebuke, his Grace the Duke of Somerset retired a little from + the front for the moment. The King turned to Tom, and said kindly—“My + poor boy, how was it that you could remember where I hid the Seal when I + could not remember it myself?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, my King, that was easy, since I used it divers days.” + </p> + <p> + “Used it—yet could not explain where it was?” + </p> + <p> + “I did not know it was <i>that</i> they wanted. They did not + describe it, your Majesty.” + </p> + <p> + “Then how used you it?” + </p> + <p> + The red blood began to steal up into Tom’s cheeks, and he dropped + his eyes and was silent. + </p> + <p> + “Speak up, good lad, and fear nothing,” said the King. "How + used you the Great Seal of England?” + </p> + <p> + Tom stammered a moment, in a pathetic confusion, then got it out— + </p> + <p> + “To crack nuts with!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link32-381" id="link32-381"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link32-381.jpg (59K)" src="images/32-381.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Poor child, the avalanche of laughter that greeted this nearly swept him + off his feet. But if a doubt remained in any mind that Tom Canty was + not the King of England and familiar with the august appurtenances of + royalty, this reply disposed of it utterly. + </p> + <p> + Meantime the sumptuous robe of state had been removed from Tom’s + shoulders to the King’s, whose rags were effectually hidden from + sight under it. Then the coronation ceremonies were resumed; the + true King was anointed and the crown set upon his head, whilst cannon + thundered the news to the city, and all London seemed to rock with + applause. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c33" id="c33"></a> <a + name="link33-383" id="link33-383"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link33-383.jpg (86K)" src="images/33-383.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Chapter XXXIII. Edward as King. + </p> + <p> + Miles Hendon was picturesque enough before he got into the riot on London + Bridge—he was more so when he got out of it. He had but little + money when he got in, none at all when he got out. The pickpockets + had stripped him of his last farthing. + </p> + <p> + But no matter, so he found his boy. Being a soldier, he did not go + at his task in a random way, but set to work, first of all, to arrange his + campaign. + </p> + <p> + What would the boy naturally do? Where would he naturally go? Well—argued + Miles—he would naturally go to his former haunts, for that is the + instinct of unsound minds, when homeless and forsaken, as well as of sound + ones. Whereabouts were his former haunts? His rags, taken + together with the low villain who seemed to know him and who even claimed + to be his father, indicated that his home was in one or another of the + poorest and meanest districts of London. Would the search for him be + difficult, or long? No, it was likely to be easy and brief. He + would not hunt for the boy, he would hunt for a crowd; in the centre of a + big crowd or a little one, sooner or later, he should find his poor little + friend, sure; and the mangy mob would be entertaining itself with + pestering and aggravating the boy, who would be proclaiming himself King, + as usual. Then Miles Hendon would cripple some of those people, and + carry off his little ward, and comfort and cheer him with loving words, + and the two would never be separated any more. + </p> + <p> + So Miles started on his quest. Hour after hour he tramped through + back alleys and squalid streets, seeking groups and crowds, and finding no + end of them, but never any sign of the boy. This greatly surprised + him, but did not discourage him. To his notion, there was nothing + the matter with his plan of campaign; the only miscalculation about it was + that the campaign was becoming a lengthy one, whereas he had expected it + to be short. + </p> + <p> + When daylight arrived, at last, he had made many a mile, and canvassed + many a crowd, but the only result was that he was tolerably tired, rather + hungry and very sleepy. He wanted some breakfast, but there was no + way to get it. To beg for it did not occur to him; as to pawning his + sword, he would as soon have thought of parting with his honour; he could + spare some of his clothes—yes, but one could as easily find a + customer for a disease as for such clothes. + </p> + <p> + At noon he was still tramping—among the rabble which followed after + the royal procession, now; for he argued that this regal display would + attract his little lunatic powerfully. He followed the pageant + through all its devious windings about London, and all the way to + Westminster and the Abbey. He drifted here and there amongst the + multitudes that were massed in the vicinity for a weary long time, baffled + and perplexed, and finally wandered off, thinking, and trying to contrive + some way to better his plan of campaign. By-and-by, when he came to + himself out of his musings, he discovered that the town was far behind him + and that the day was growing old. He was near the river, and in the + country; it was a region of fine rural seats—not the sort of + district to welcome clothes like his. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link33-386" id="link33-386"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link33-386.jpg (94K)" src="images/33-386.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + It was not at all cold; so he stretched himself on the ground in the lee + of a hedge to rest and think. Drowsiness presently began to settle + upon his senses; the faint and far-off boom of cannon was wafted to his + ear, and he said to himself, “The new King is crowned,” and + straightway fell asleep. He had not slept or rested, before, for + more than thirty hours. He did not wake again until near the middle of the + next morning. + </p> + <p> + He got up, lame, stiff, and half famished, washed himself in the river, + stayed his stomach with a pint or two of water, and trudged off toward + Westminster, grumbling at himself for having wasted so much time. Hunger + helped him to a new plan, now; he would try to get speech with old Sir + Humphrey Marlow and borrow a few marks, and—but that was enough of a + plan for the present; it would be time enough to enlarge it when this + first stage should be accomplished. + </p> + <p> + Toward eleven o’clock he approached the palace; and although a host + of showy people were about him, moving in the same direction, he was not + inconspicuous—his costume took care of that. He watched these + people’s faces narrowly, hoping to find a charitable one whose + possessor might be willing to carry his name to the old lieutenant—as + to trying to get into the palace himself, that was simply out of the + question. + </p> + <p> + Presently our whipping-boy passed him, then wheeled about and scanned his + figure well, saying to himself, “An’ that is not the very + vagabond his Majesty is in such a worry about, then am I an ass—though + belike I was that before. He answereth the description to a rag—that + God should make two such would be to cheapen miracles by wasteful + repetition. I would I could contrive an excuse to speak with him.” + </p> + <p> + Miles Hendon saved him the trouble; for he turned about, then, as a man + generally will when somebody mesmerises him by gazing hard at him from + behind; and observing a strong interest in the boy’s eyes, he + stepped toward him and said— + </p> + <p> + “You have just come out from the palace; do you belong there?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, your worship.” + </p> + <p> + “Know you Sir Humphrey Marlow?” + </p> + <p> + The boy started, and said to himself, “Lord! mine old departed + father!” Then he answered aloud, “Right well, your worship.” + </p> + <p> + “Good—is he within?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the boy; and added, to himself, “within his + grave.” + </p> + <p> + “Might I crave your favour to carry my name to him, and say I beg to + say a word in his ear?” + </p> + <p> + “I will despatch the business right willingly, fair sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Then say Miles Hendon, son of Sir Richard, is here without—I + shall be greatly bounden to you, my good lad.” + </p> + <p> + The boy looked disappointed. "The King did not name him so,” + he said to himself; “but it mattereth not, this is his twin brother, + and can give his Majesty news of t’other Sir-Odds-and-Ends, I + warrant.” So he said to Miles, “Step in there a moment, + good sir, and wait till I bring you word.” + </p> + <p> + Hendon retired to the place indicated—it was a recess sunk in the + palace wall, with a stone bench in it—a shelter for sentinels in bad + weather. He had hardly seated himself when some halberdiers, in charge of + an officer, passed by. The officer saw him, halted his men, and + commanded Hendon to come forth. He obeyed, and was promptly arrested + as a suspicious character prowling within the precincts of the palace. + Things began to look ugly. Poor Miles was going to explain, + but the officer roughly silenced him, and ordered his men to disarm him + and search him. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link33-389" id="link33-389"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link33-389.jpg (117K)" src="images/33-389.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + “God of his mercy grant that they find somewhat,” said poor + Miles; “I have searched enow, and failed, yet is my need greater + than theirs.” + </p> + <p> + Nothing was found but a document. The officer tore it open, and + Hendon smiled when he recognised the ‘pot-hooks’ made by his + lost little friend that black day at Hendon Hall. The officer’s + face grew dark as he read the English paragraph, and Miles blenched to the + opposite colour as he listened. + </p> + <p> + “Another new claimant of the Crown!” cried the officer. "Verily + they breed like rabbits, to-day. Seize the rascal, men, and see ye + keep him fast whilst I convey this precious paper within and send it to + the King.” + </p> + <p> + He hurried away, leaving the prisoner in the grip of the halberdiers. + </p> + <p> + “Now is my evil luck ended at last,” muttered Hendon, “for + I shall dangle at a rope’s end for a certainty, by reason of that + bit of writing. And what will become of my poor lad!—ah, only + the good God knoweth.” + </p> + <p> + By-and-by he saw the officer coming again, in a great hurry; so he plucked + his courage together, purposing to meet his trouble as became a man. + The officer ordered the men to loose the prisoner and return his + sword to him; then bowed respectfully, and said— + </p> + <p> + “Please you, sir, to follow me.” + </p> + <p> + Hendon followed, saying to himself, “An’ I were not travelling + to death and judgment, and so must needs economise in sin, I would + throttle this knave for his mock courtesy.” + </p> + <p> + The two traversed a populous court, and arrived at the grand entrance of + the palace, where the officer, with another bow, delivered Hendon into the + hands of a gorgeous official, who received him with profound respect and + led him forward through a great hall, lined on both sides with rows of + splendid flunkeys (who made reverential obeisance as the two passed along, + but fell into death-throes of silent laughter at our stately scarecrow the + moment his back was turned), and up a broad staircase, among flocks of + fine folk, and finally conducted him into a vast room, clove a passage for + him through the assembled nobility of England, then made a bow, reminded + him to take his hat off, and left him standing in the middle of the room, + a mark for all eyes, for plenty of indignant frowns, and for a sufficiency + of amused and derisive smiles. + </p> + <p> + Miles Hendon was entirely bewildered. There sat the young King, + under a canopy of state, five steps away, with his head bent down and + aside, speaking with a sort of human bird of paradise—a duke, maybe. + Hendon observed to himself that it was hard enough to be sentenced + to death in the full vigour of life, without having this peculiarly public + humiliation added. He wished the King would hurry about it—some + of the gaudy people near by were becoming pretty offensive. At this + moment the King raised his head slightly, and Hendon caught a good view of + his face. The sight nearly took his breath away!—He stood gazing at + the fair young face like one transfixed; then presently ejaculated— + </p> + <p> + “Lo, the Lord of the Kingdom of Dreams and Shadows on his throne!” + </p> + <p> + He muttered some broken sentences, still gazing and marvelling; then + turned his eyes around and about, scanning the gorgeous throng and the + splendid saloon, murmuring, “But these are <i>real</i>—verily + these are <i>real</i>—surely it is not a dream.” + </p> + <p> + He stared at the King again—and thought, “<i>Is</i> it a dream + . . . or <i>is</i> he the veritable Sovereign of England, and not the + friendless poor Tom o’ Bedlam I took him for—who shall solve + me this riddle?” + </p> + <p> + A sudden idea flashed in his eye, and he strode to the wall, gathered up a + chair, brought it back, planted it on the floor, and sat down in it! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link33-392" id="link33-392"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link33-392.jpg (184K)" src="images/33-392.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + A buzz of indignation broke out, a rough hand was laid upon him and a + voice exclaimed— + </p> + <p> + “Up, thou mannerless clown! would’st sit in the presence of + the King?” + </p> + <p> + The disturbance attracted his Majesty’s attention, who stretched + forth his hand and cried out— + </p> + <p> + “Touch him not, it is his right!” + </p> + <p> + The throng fell back, stupefied. The King went on— + </p> + <p> + “Learn ye all, ladies, lords, and gentlemen, that this is my trusty + and well-beloved servant, Miles Hendon, who interposed his good sword and + saved his prince from bodily harm and possible death—and for this he + is a knight, by the King’s voice. Also learn, that for a + higher service, in that he saved his sovereign stripes and shame, taking + these upon himself, he is a peer of England, Earl of Kent, and shall have + gold and lands meet for the dignity. More—the privilege which + he hath just exercised is his by royal grant; for we have ordained that + the chiefs of his line shall have and hold the right to sit in the + presence of the Majesty of England henceforth, age after age, so long as + the crown shall endure. Molest him not.” + </p> + <p> + Two persons, who, through delay, had only arrived from the country during + this morning, and had now been in this room only five minutes, stood + listening to these words and looking at the King, then at the scarecrow, + then at the King again, in a sort of torpid bewilderment. These were + Sir Hugh and the Lady Edith. But the new Earl did not see them. + He was still staring at the monarch, in a dazed way, and muttering— + </p> + <p> + “Oh, body o’ me! <i>this</i> my pauper! This my + lunatic! This is he whom <i>I</i> would show what grandeur was, in + my house of seventy rooms and seven-and-twenty servants! This is he + who had never known aught but rags for raiment, kicks for comfort, and + offal for diet! This is he whom <i>I</i> adopted and would make + respectable! Would God I had a bag to hide my head in!” + </p> + <p> + Then his manners suddenly came back to him, and he dropped upon his knees, + with his hands between the King’s, and swore allegiance and did + homage for his lands and titles. Then he rose and stood respectfully + aside, a mark still for all eyes—and much envy, too. + </p> + <p> + Now the King discovered Sir Hugh, and spoke out with wrathful voice and + kindling eye— + </p> + <p> + “Strip this robber of his false show and stolen estates, and put him + under lock and key till I have need of him.” + </p> + <p> + The late Sir Hugh was led away. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link33-394" id="link33-394"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link33-394.jpg (165K)" src="images/33-394.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + There was a stir at the other end of the room, now; the assemblage fell + apart, and Tom Canty, quaintly but richly clothed, marched down, between + these living walls, preceded by an usher. He knelt before the King, + who said— + </p> + <p> + “I have learned the story of these past few weeks, and am well + pleased with thee. Thou hast governed the realm with right royal + gentleness and mercy. Thou hast found thy mother and thy sisters + again? Good; they shall be cared for—and thy father shall + hang, if thou desire it and the law consent. Know, all ye that hear + my voice, that from this day, they that abide in the shelter of Christ’s + Hospital and share the King’s bounty shall have their minds and + hearts fed, as well as their baser parts; and this boy shall dwell there, + and hold the chief place in its honourable body of governors, during life. + And for that he hath been a king, it is meet that other than common + observance shall be his due; wherefore note this his dress of state, for + by it he shall be known, and none shall copy it; and wheresoever he shall + come, it shall remind the people that he hath been royal, in his time, and + none shall deny him his due of reverence or fail to give him salutation. + He hath the throne’s protection, he hath the crown’s + support, he shall be known and called by the honourable title of the King’s + Ward.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> <a name="link33-395" id="link33-395"></a> <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link33-395.jpg (145K)" src="images/33-395.jpg" + style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + The proud and happy Tom Canty rose and kissed the King’s hand, and + was conducted from the presence. He did not waste any time, but flew + to his mother, to tell her and Nan and Bet all about it and get them to + help him enjoy the great news. {1} + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c34" id="c34"></a> <a + name="link34-397" id="link34-397"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link34-397.jpg (58K)" src="images/34-397.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + Conclusion. Justice and retribution. + </p> + <p> + When the mysteries were all cleared up, it came out, by confession of Hugh + Hendon, that his wife had repudiated Miles by his command, that day at + Hendon Hall—a command assisted and supported by the perfectly + trustworthy promise that if she did not deny that he was Miles Hendon, and + stand firmly to it, he would have her life; whereupon she said, “Take + it!”—she did not value it—and she would not repudiate + Miles; then the husband said he would spare her life but have Miles + assassinated! This was a different matter; so she gave her word and + kept it. + </p> + <p> + Hugh was not prosecuted for his threats or for stealing his brother’s + estates and title, because the wife and brother would not testify against + him—and the former would not have been allowed to do it, even if she + had wanted to. Hugh deserted his wife and went over to the + continent, where he presently died; and by-and-by the Earl of Kent married + his relict. There were grand times and rejoicings at Hendon village when + the couple paid their first visit to the Hall. + </p> + <p> + Tom Canty’s father was never heard of again. + </p> + <p> + The King sought out the farmer who had been branded and sold as a slave, + and reclaimed him from his evil life with the Ruffler’s gang, and + put him in the way of a comfortable livelihood. + </p> + <p> + He also took that old lawyer out of prison and remitted his fine. He + provided good homes for the daughters of the two Baptist women whom he saw + burned at the stake, and roundly punished the official who laid the + undeserved stripes upon Miles Hendon’s back. + </p> + <p> + He saved from the gallows the boy who had captured the stray falcon, and + also the woman who had stolen a remnant of cloth from a weaver; but he was + too late to save the man who had been convicted of killing a deer in the + royal forest. + </p> + <p> + He showed favour to the justice who had pitied him when he was supposed to + have stolen a pig, and he had the gratification of seeing him grow in the + public esteem and become a great and honoured man. + </p> + <p> + As long as the King lived he was fond of telling the story of his + adventures, all through, from the hour that the sentinel cuffed him away + from the palace gate till the final midnight when he deftly mixed himself + into a gang of hurrying workmen and so slipped into the Abbey and climbed + up and hid himself in the Confessor’s tomb, and then slept so long, + next day, that he came within one of missing the Coronation altogether. + He said that the frequent rehearsing of the precious lesson kept him + strong in his purpose to make its teachings yield benefits to his people; + and so, whilst his life was spared he should continue to tell the story, + and thus keep its sorrowful spectacles fresh in his memory and the springs + of pity replenished in his heart. + </p> + <p> + Miles Hendon and Tom Canty were favourites of the King, all through his + brief reign, and his sincere mourners when he died. The good Earl of Kent + had too much sense to abuse his peculiar privilege; but he exercised it + twice after the instance we have seen of it before he was called from this + world—once at the accession of Queen Mary, and once at the accession + of Queen Elizabeth. A descendant of his exercised it at the + accession of James I. Before this one’s son chose to use the + privilege, near a quarter of a century had elapsed, and the ‘privilege + of the Kents’ had faded out of most people’s memories; so, + when the Kent of that day appeared before Charles I. and his court and sat + down in the sovereign’s presence to assert and perpetuate the right + of his house, there was a fine stir indeed! But the matter was soon + explained, and the right confirmed. The last Earl of the line fell + in the wars of the Commonwealth fighting for the King, and the odd + privilege ended with him. + </p> + <p> + Tom Canty lived to be a very old man, a handsome, white-haired old fellow, + of grave and benignant aspect. As long as he lasted he was honoured; + and he was also reverenced, for his striking and peculiar costume kept the + people reminded that ‘in his time he had been royal;’ so, + wherever he appeared the crowd fell apart, making way for him, and + whispering, one to another, “Doff thy hat, it is the King’s + Ward!”—and so they saluted, and got his kindly smile in return—and + they valued it, too, for his was an honourable history. + </p> + <p> + Yes, King Edward VI. lived only a few years, poor boy, but he lived them + worthily. More than once, when some great dignitary, some gilded + vassal of the crown, made argument against his leniency, and urged that + some law which he was bent upon amending was gentle enough for its + purpose, and wrought no suffering or oppression which any one need + mightily mind, the young King turned the mournful eloquence of his great + compassionate eyes upon him and answered— + </p> + <p> + “What dost <i>thou</i> know of suffering and oppression? I and + my people know, but not thou.” + </p> + <p> + The reign of Edward VI. was a singularly merciful one for those harsh + times. Now that we are taking leave of him, let us try to keep this + in our minds, to his credit. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /><br /> <a name="c35" id="c35"></a> <a + name="link35-403" id="link35-403"></a> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> + <img alt="link35-403.jpg (46K)" src="images/35-403.jpg" style="width:100%;" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + FOOTNOTES AND TWAIN’S NOTES + </p> + <p> + {1} For Mark Twain’s note see below under the relevant chapter + heading. + </p> + <p> + {2} He refers to the order of baronets, or baronettes; the barones + minores, as distinct from the parliamentary barons—not, it need + hardly be said, to the baronets of later creation. + </p> + <p> + {3} The lords of Kingsale, descendants of De Courcy, still enjoy + this curious privilege. + </p> + <p> + {4} Hume. + </p> + <p> + {5} Ib. + </p> + <p> + {6} Leigh Hunt’s ‘The Town,’ p.408, quotation from + an early tourist. + </p> + <p> + {7} Canting terms for various kinds of thieves, beggars and + vagabonds, and their female companions. + </p> + <p> + {8} From ‘The English Rogue.’ London, 1665. + </p> + <p> + {9} Hume’s England. + </p> + <p> + {10} See Dr. J. Hammond Trumbull’s Blue Laws, True and False, + p. 11. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br />NOTE 1, Chapter IV. Christ’s Hospital Costume. + </p> + <p> + It is most reasonable to regard the dress as copied from the costume of + the citizens of London of that period, when long blue coats were the + common habit of apprentices and serving-men, and yellow stockings were + generally worn; the coat fits closely to the body, but has loose sleeves, + and beneath is worn a sleeveless yellow under-coat; around the waist is a + red leathern girdle; a clerical band around the neck, and a small flat + black cap, about the size of a saucer, completes the costume.—Timbs’ + Curiosities of London. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br />NOTE 2, Chapter IV. + </p> + <p> + It appears that Christ’s Hospital was not originally founded as a <i>school</i>; + its object was to rescue children from the streets, to shelter, feed, + clothe them.—Timbs’ Curiosities of London. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br />NOTE 3, Chapter V. The Duke of Norfolk’s Condemnation + commanded. + </p> + <p> + The King was now approaching fast towards his end; and fearing lest + Norfolk should escape him, he sent a message to the Commons, by which he + desired them to hasten the Bill, on pretence that Norfolk enjoyed the + dignity of Earl Marshal, and it was necessary to appoint another, who + might officiate at the ensuing ceremony of installing his son Prince of + Wales.—Hume’s History of England, vol. iii. p. 307. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br />NOTE 4, Chapter VII. + </p> + <p> + It was not till the end of this reign (Henry VIII.) that any salads, + carrots, turnips, or other edible roots were produced in England. The + little of these vegetables that was used was formerly imported from + Holland and Flanders. Queen Catherine, when she wanted a salad, was + obliged to despatch a messenger thither on purpose.—Hume’s + History of England, vol. iii. p. 314. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br />NOTE 5, Chapter VIII. Attainder of Norfolk. + </p> + <p> + The House of Peers, without examining the prisoner, without trial or + evidence, passed a Bill of Attainder against him and sent it down to the + Commons . . . The obsequious Commons obeyed his (the King’s) + directions; and the King, having affixed the Royal assent to the Bill by + commissioners, issued orders for the execution of Norfolk on the morning + of January 29 (the next day).—Hume’s History of England, vol + iii. p 306. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br />NOTE 6, Chapter X. The Loving-cup. + </p> + <p> + The loving-cup, and the peculiar ceremonies observed in drinking from it, + are older than English history. It is thought that both are Danish + importations. As far back as knowledge goes, the loving-cup has + always been drunk at English banquets. Tradition explains the + ceremonies in this way. In the rude ancient times it was deemed a + wise precaution to have both hands of both drinkers employed, lest while + the pledger pledged his love and fidelity to the pledgee, the pledgee take + that opportunity to slip a dirk into him! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br />NOTE 7, Chapter XI. The Duke of Norfolk’s narrow + Escape. + </p> + <p> + Had Henry VIII. survived a few hours longer, his order for the duke’s + execution would have been carried into effect. ‘But news being + carried to the Tower that the King himself had expired that night, the + lieutenant deferred obeying the warrant; and it was not thought advisable + by the Council to begin a new reign by the death of the greatest nobleman + in the kingdom, who had been condemned by a sentence so unjust and + tyrannical.’—Hume’s History of England, vol. iii, p. + 307. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br />NOTE 8, Chapter XIV. The Whipping-boy. + </p> + <p> + James I. and Charles II. had whipping-boys, when they were little fellows, + to take their punishment for them when they fell short in their lessons; + so I have ventured to furnish my small prince with one, for my own + purposes. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br />NOTES to Chapter XV. + </p> + <p> + Character of Hertford. + </p> + <p> + The young King discovered an extreme attachment to his uncle, who was, in + the main, a man of moderation and probity.—Hume’s History of + England, vol. iii, p324. + </p> + <p> + But if he (the Protector) gave offence by assuming too much state, he + deserves great praise on account of the laws passed this session, by which + the rigour of former statutes was much mitigated, and some security given + to the freedom of the constitution. All laws were repealed which + extended the crime of treason beyond the statute of the twenty-fifth of + Edward III.; all laws enacted during the late reign extending the crime of + felony; all the former laws against Lollardy or heresy, together with the + statute of the Six Articles. None were to be accused for words, but + within a month after they were spoken. By these repeals several of + the most rigorous laws that ever had passed in England were annulled; and + some dawn, both of civil and religious liberty, began to appear to the + people. A repeal also passed of that law, the destruction of all + laws, by which the King’s proclamation was made of equal force with + a statute.—Ibid. vol. iii. p. 339. + </p> + <p> + Boiling to Death. + </p> + <p> + In the reign of Henry VIII. poisoners were, by Act of Parliament, + condemned to be <i>boiled to death</i>. This Act was repealed in the + following reign. + </p> + <p> + In Germany, even in the seventeenth century, this horrible punishment was + inflicted on coiners and counterfeiters. Taylor, the Water Poet, + describes an execution he witnessed in Hamburg in 1616. The judgment + pronounced against a coiner of false money was that he should ‘<i>be + boiled to death in oil</i>; not thrown into the vessel at once, but with a + pulley or rope to be hanged under the armpits, and then let down into the + oil <i>by degrees</i>; first the feet, and next the legs, and so to boil + his flesh from his bones alive.’—Dr. J. Hammond Trumbull’s + Blue Laws, True and False, p. 13. + </p> + <p> + The Famous Stocking Case. + </p> + <p> + A woman and her daughter, <i>nine years old</i>, were hanged in Huntingdon + for selling their souls to the devil, and raising a storm by pulling off + their stockings!—Dr. J. Hammond Trumbull’s Blue Laws, True and + False, p. 20. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br />NOTE 10, Chapter XVII. Enslaving. + </p> + <p> + So young a King and so ignorant a peasant were likely to make mistakes; + and this is an instance in point. This peasant was suffering from + this law <i>by anticipation</i>; the King was venting his indignation + against a law which was not yet in existence; for this hideous statute was + to have birth in this little King’s <i>own reign</i>. However, we + know, from the humanity of his character, that it could never have been + suggested by him. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br />NOTES to Chapter XXIII. Death for Trifling Larcenies. + </p> + <p> + When Connecticut and New Haven were framing their first codes, larceny + above the value of twelve pence was a capital crime in England—as it + had been since the time of Henry I.—Dr. J. Hammond Trumbull’s + Blue Laws, True and False, p. 17. + </p> + <p> + The curious old book called The English Rogue makes the limit thirteen + pence ha’penny: death being the portion of any who steal a + thing ‘above the value of thirteen pence ha’penny.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br />NOTES to Chapter XXVII. + </p> + <p> + From many descriptions of larceny the law expressly took away the benefit + of clergy: to steal a horse, or a <i>hawk</i>, or woollen cloth from + the weaver, was a hanging matter. So it was to kill a deer from the + King’s forest, or to export sheep from the kingdom.—Dr. J. + Hammond Trumbull’s Blue Laws, True and False, p.13. + </p> + <p> + William Prynne, a learned barrister, was sentenced (long after Edward VI.’s + time) to lose both his ears in the pillory, to degradation from the bar, a + fine of 3,000 pounds, and imprisonment for life. Three years + afterwards he gave new offence to Laud by publishing a pamphlet against + the hierarchy. He was again prosecuted, and was sentenced to lose <i>what + remained of his ears</i>, to pay a fine of 5,000 pounds, to be <i>branded + on both his cheeks</i> with the letters S. L. (for Seditious Libeller), + and to remain in prison for life. The severity of this sentence was + equalled by the savage rigour of its execution.—Ibid. p. 12. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br />NOTES to Chapter XXXIII. + </p> + <p> + Christ’s Hospital, or Bluecoat School, ’the noblest + institution in the world.’ + </p> + <p> + The ground on which the Priory of the Grey Friars stood was conferred by + Henry VIII. on the Corporation of London (who caused the institution there + of a home for poor boys and girls). Subsequently, Edward VI. caused the + old Priory to be properly repaired, and founded within it that noble + establishment called the Bluecoat School, or Christ’s Hospital, for + the <i>education</i> and maintenance of orphans and the children of + indigent persons . . . Edward would not let him (Bishop Ridley) depart + till the letter was written (to the Lord Mayor), and then charged him to + deliver it himself, and signify his special request and commandment that + no time might be lost in proposing what was convenient, and apprising him + of the proceedings. The work was zealously undertaken, Ridley + himself engaging in it; and the result was the founding of Christ’s + Hospital for the education of poor children. (The King endowed several + other charities at the same time.) “Lord God,” said he, + “I yield Thee most hearty thanks that Thou hast given me life thus + long to finish this work to the glory of Thy name!” That + innocent and most exemplary life was drawing rapidly to its close, and in + a few days he rendered up his spirit to his Creator, praying God to defend + the realm from Papistry.—J. Heneage Jesse’s London: its + Celebrated Characters and Places. + </p> + <p> + In the Great Hall hangs a large picture of King Edward VI. seated on his + throne, in a scarlet and ermined robe, holding the sceptre in his left + hand, and presenting with the other the Charter to the kneeling Lord + Mayor. By his side stands the Chancellor, holding the seals, and + next to him are other officers of state. Bishop Ridley kneels before + him with uplifted hands, as if supplicating a blessing on the event; + whilst the Aldermen, etc., with the Lord Mayor, kneel on both sides, + occupying the middle ground of the picture; and lastly, in front, are a + double row of boys on one side and girls on the other, from the master and + matron down to the boy and girl who have stepped forward from their + respective rows, and kneel with raised hands before the King.—Timbs’ + Curiosities of London, p. 98. + </p> + <p> + Christ’s Hospital, by ancient custom, possesses the privilege of + addressing the Sovereign on the occasion of his or her coming into the + City to partake of the hospitality of the Corporation of London.—Ibid. + </p> + <p> + The Dining Hall, with its lobby and organ-gallery, occupies the entire + storey, which is 187 feet long, 51 feet wide, and 47 feet high; it is lit + by nine large windows, filled with stained glass on the south side; and + is, next to Westminster Hall, the noblest room in the metropolis. Here + the boys, now about 800 in number, dine; and here are held the ’Suppings + in Public,’ to which visitors are admitted by tickets issued by the + Treasurer and by the Governors of Christ’s Hospital. The + tables are laid with cheese in wooden bowls, beer in wooden piggins, + poured from leathern jacks, and bread brought in large baskets. The + official company enter; the Lord Mayor, or President, takes his seat in a + state chair made of oak from St. Catherine’s Church, by the Tower; a + hymn is sung, accompanied by the organ; a ‘Grecian,’ or head + boy, reads the prayers from the pulpit, silence being enforced by three + drops of a wooden hammer. After prayer the supper commences, and the + visitors walk between the tables. At its close the ’trade-boys’ + take up the baskets, bowls, jacks, piggins, and candlesticks, and pass in + procession, the bowing to the Governors being curiously formal. This + spectacle was witnessed by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1845. + </p> + <p> + Among the more eminent Bluecoat boys are Joshua Barnes, editor of Anacreon + and Euripides; Jeremiah Markland, the eminent critic, particularly in + Greek Literature; Camden, the antiquary; Bishop Stillingfleet; Samuel + Richardson, the novelist; Thomas Mitchell, the translator of Aristophanes; + Thomas Barnes, many years editor of the London Times; Coleridge, Charles + Lamb, and Leigh Hunt. + </p> + <p> + No boy is admitted before he is seven years old, or after he is nine; and + no boy can remain in the school after he is fifteen, King’s boys and + ‘Grecians’ alone excepted. There are about 500 + Governors, at the head of whom are the Sovereign and the Prince of Wales. + The qualification for a Governor is payment of 500 pounds.—Ibid. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + GENERAL NOTE. + </p> + <p> + One hears much about the ‘hideous Blue Laws of Connecticut,’ + and is accustomed to shudder piously when they are mentioned. There + are people in America—and even in England!—who imagine that + they were a very monument of malignity, pitilessness, and inhumanity; + whereas in reality they were about the first <i>sweeping departure from + judicial atrocity</i> which the ‘civilised’ world had seen. + This humane and kindly Blue Law Code, of two hundred and forty years + ago, stands all by itself, with ages of bloody law on the further side of + it, and a century and three-quarters of bloody English law on <i>this</i> + side of it. + </p> + <p> + There has never been a time—under the Blue Laws or any other—when + above <i>fourteen</i> crimes were punishable by death in Connecticut. + But in England, within the memory of men who are still hale in body + and mind, <i>two hundred and twenty-three</i> crimes were punishable by + death! {10} These facts are worth knowing—and worth thinking + about, too. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Prince and The Pauper, Complete +by Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens) + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK PRINCE AND THE PAUPER *** + +***** This file should be named 18link37-h.htm or 18link37-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/8/3/1837/ + +Produced by David Widger. 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