 Chapter 10, Part 1 of A Prince of Good Fellows This is a LibriVox recording, or LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org, reading by Los Rolander. A Prince of Good Fellows by Robert Barr, Chapter 10, Part 1. The King Sails The young men awoke somewhat late next day, with heads reasonably clear, a very practical testimonial to the soundness of their previous night's vintage. What's to be done? asked the King. Macdonald proposed that they should repair instantly to Macleod, and demand of him conveyance and safe conduct to the mainland. We can scarcely do that, demurred the King, until we are sure that detention is intended. Let us put the matter at once to a practical test and see if we are prevented from leaving the castle. If we are, then is the time for protest. Acting on his suggestion, the two went outside and took the road by which they had come. They found an agile young ghillie at their heels before they were out of sight of Danvegan. Why are you following us? asked Macdonald in Gaelic. I was told to wait on your lordships. Returned the man. We need no waiting on. Turn back. But the ghillie shook his shaggy, uncovered head, and patiently trod in their footsteps. Let us see how far he will follow, said the King as he strode on. The ghillie accompanied them for half an hour or more, without making any protest. But at last he said to Macdonald that he thought it was time to return. We are going through to the coast, we came from, replied Macdonald, and do not intend to return. At this said ghillie drew from his belt a short black tube that looked like a practicing chanter, which indeed it was, and on this he blew a few shrill notes. Up to that moment the way had been clear, but now they repaired over the hill in front of them a dozen armed men, who approached carelessly as if they had merely happened to be in the neighborhood, or were journeying together toward the castle. I think it is time to go back, suggested the ghillie in a dull, uninterested voice. I think it myself, replied Macdonald. And so their futile excursion came to an end. Once more in the castle they were confronted again by the question. What next? I am certain, said the King, that if Macleod is attempting to hold us, there is little use in making appeal to him, and we have small chance of getting word to the fleet. I propose then to queers him. He was alone in his study yesterday, and he may be alone there now. A sword's point at a man's throat is an irresistible argument. But will he keep his word if he gives it under distress, objected Macdonald? I think he will, but it is better not to put too strong a temptation on him. If we come on him alone, we will make him sign a pass for us. Then we will gag and tie him securely, convey him when the way is clear to this room, where he will be less likely to be looked for. We will then give him the consolation that if his pass proves useless, we will return and finish the business by sending him into a less troublesome world. This advice was not sooner promulgated than it was acted upon. The pair traversed the corridors unseen until they came to the door of the study. Then, slipping out their swords, they entered quickly unannounced. The sight which confronted them was so unexpected that each stood there withdrawn sword in hand as if stricken into stone. Macdonald was not in the room, but in his stead, beside the wall of books, her hand-uprace taking down a small vellum-covered volume was the most beautiful young girl of perhaps nineteen or twenty that either of them had ever looked upon. She seemed surprised at their abrupt entrance and remained statuously in her position, as motionless as they. The young woman was the first of the three to recover her composure. Relinquishing the book to the shelf, the hand came down to her side, and she said in most charming, liquid tones, but in broken English, you are looking for my father, perhaps? The king ever gallant swept his hat from his head and bowed low, his alertness of mind saving the situation, for he answered quickly. Indeed, no, my lady, we thought the room was empty, so I implore you to pardon our intrusion. We were here yesterday, and my friend and I have just had a dispute regarding the size of these gigantic tombs on the lower shelf. My friend insisting that they exceeded our sword-blades in length. Pardon me, madam, and the king stepped briskly to the largest book, laying it so down its back as if in measurement. There, Jamie, he cried, I have won the wager. I knew it was not more than three-quarters the length of my blade. The glance of fear to which the young woman had treated them departed from her face, and she smiled slightly at the young man's eagerness. I gather from your remark, he said, that you are Miss MacLeod of Dunvegan. May I introduce my friend, James MacDonald of Sleet. My own is James Stewart, and for a time we are your father's guests at Dunvegan. The young lady with inimitable grace bowed her queenly head to each of them in turn. The men slipped their swords quietly back into their scabbards. I give you good welcome to Dunvegan, said the girl. I regret that I do not speak fair the English. Indeed, my lady rejoined the susceptible king. It is the most charming English I ever heard. The fair stranger laughed in low and most melodious cadence, like a distant cathedral's chime falling on the evening air. I am thinking you will be flattering me, she said, but I know my English is not good, for there are few in these parts that I can speak to in it. I shall be delighted to be your teacher, replied the king with his most courteous intonation. He knew from experience that any offer of tutorship from him had always proved exceedingly acceptable to the more dainty sex, and this knowledge gave him unbounded confidence while it augmented his natural self-esteem. It is perhaps that you already speak the Gaelic, suggested the young woman. Allas no, madame, but I should be overjoyed to learn, and there it may be you will accept me in the part of pupil. You will find me a devoted and most obedient scholar. I am in a way what you might call a poet, and I am told on every hand that Gaelic is the proper medium for that art. A puzzled expression traveled the face of the girl, as she endeavored to follow the communication addressed to her, but MacDonald sprang somewhat eagerly to the rescue, and delivered a long harangue in her native language. Her delight was instant, the cloud on her brow disappearing as if by magic under the genial influence of the accustomed converse. The king's physiognomy also underwent a change, but the transformation was not so pleasing as that which had illumined the countenance of the girl. His majesty distinctly scowled at the intrepid subject who had so impetuously intervened, but the pair paid slight attention to him, conversing amably together much to their mutual pleasure. Now it is nowhere considered polite to use a language not understood by some one person in the party. This fact MacDonald knew perfectly well, and he doubtless would have acted differently if he had taken the time to think, but he had become so engrossed by the beauty of the lady, that for the moment every other consideration seemed to have fled from his mind. Miss MacLeod is to be excused, because she probably supposed a steward to be more or less acquainted with the language, in spite of his former disclaimer, which it is not likely she fully comprehended. So she talked fluently and laughed lightly, while one of her auditors was consumed by an anger he did not show. The tension of the situation was changed rather than relieved by the silent opening of the door, and the pause of MacLeod himself on the threshold, gazing dubiously at the group before him. The animation of the girl fell from her the moment she beheld her father, and the young men turning were confronted by the gloomy features of the chieftain. The MacLeod closed the door softly, and without a word walked to his chair beside the table. The girl, bowing slightly with visible restraint, quitted the room, and as she did so MacDonald's alertness again proved his friend, for he tiptoed quickly to the door before the king, a custom to be waited upon rather than waiting, recollected himself and held it open for the lady, making a gallant sweep with his bonnet as she passed out. When the subtle young man returned to his place beside the king, he said in a whisper, No sorts point play with the father of such a beauty, eh! To this remark his majesty made no reply, but said rather gruffly and abruptly to his host, Do you hold us prisoners in this castle, sir? That will depend on the answers I get from you, replied the MacLeod slowly. Are you two or either of you emissaries of the king? We are not. Thus the king know you are here. Regarding the king his knowledge or his doings, you had better address your inquiries to him personally. We have no authority to speak for his majesty. You are merely two private gentlemen, then. Come all this distance to satisfy a love of travel and a taste for scenery. You have stated the case with great accuracy, sir. Yesterday you spoke of my lack of manners in failing to ask you to be seated. I shall now refer to a breach of politeness on your own part. It is customary when strangers visit a province under an acknowledged ruler, That they should make a formal call upon the ruler before be taking themselves to other portions of his territory. You remain for several days in sky without taking the trouble to inform me of your arrival. Sir, replied James Hottily, I dispute your contention entirely. You are not the ruler of sky. Who is then? The king of Scotland, of course. The Macleod laughed in a fashion that somewhat resembled the snarl of an angry dog. Of course, as you say. No one disputes that James is king of all Scotland, and I would be the last to question his right, Because I hold my lands under charter bearing his signature, carrying the great seal of the kingdom. Nevertheless, the Macleods held sky long before the present royal family of Scotland were heard of, And I would have been Macleod of Macleod, although James had never put his hand with this parchment. Meanwhile, I take the risk of detaining you until I learn more about you, And if the king makes objection, I shall apologize. You will apologize, said James Stirling. Oh, it's easily done, and fair word smooth many a difficulty. I shall write to him if he complains that I asked especially if you were his men, That you denied it, and so both for his safety in my own. I considered it well to discover whether or not you were enemies of the realm. If the father of Macdonald is offended, I shall be pleased to meet him either on sea or land in anger or in friendship. And as for you who talk so glibly of the king, I would warn you that many things happen in sky that the king knows nothing of, Besides the making of strong drink. The king made him a courtier like bow for his long speech and answered lightly. The cock crows plightly on his own midden. Your midden is here, while mine is far away. Therefore the contesting crowing is somewhat uneven. Nevertheless, I indulge in a final flapping of my wings and an effort of the throat when I say that you will apologize, Not by writing at your ease in Danvigan castle, but on your bended knees at Stirling. That's as might be, said Macleod, indifferently, and it was quite obvious that he remained unmoved by the threat. Gentlemen, I have the honor to wish you good morning. One moment, are we then to consider ourselves prisoners? You may consider yourselves whatever best pleases you. If you make another attempt like the one you indulged in this morning, Clap you both in the deepest dungeons I possess. Some would even go so far as to call that imprisonment, But if each gives me his word of honor that he will make no attempt at escape, And also that he will not communicate with Stirling, Then you are as free of my house and my grounds as if you were the most welcome of guests. But I warn you that if, when you pass your words, you attempt to tamper with any of my men, I shall know of it very soon after, and then comes the dungeon. The king hesitated and looked at his friend, but Macdonald, who had taken no part in this conversation, Seemed in an absent dream, his eyes gazing on vacancy, Or perhaps beholding a vision that entranced him. What do you say, Macdonald? inquired the king sharply. Macdonald recovered himself with a start. To what, he asked, to the terms proposed by our jailor? I did not hear them. What are they? Will you give your word not to escape? Oh, willingly! And not to communicate with Stirling? I don't care if I never see Stirling again. The king turned to the chief. There is little difficulty you see, he said, with your fellow Highlander. I, however, am supposed to be a lowlander, and therefore cautious. I give you my word not to communicate with Stirling. As for the other proviso, I amend it as follows. I shall not leave this island without your knowledge and your company. If that is satisfactory, I pledge my faith. Perfectly satisfactory, answered the Macdonald, And with that the two young men took their departure. A PRINCE OF GOOD FELLOWS Once more in the king's room, from which earlier in the day they had set out so confidently. Macdonald flung himself upon a bench, but the king paced up and down the apartment. The former thought the latter was ruminating on the conditions that had been wrung from him. But the first words of the king proved his mistake. Jamie, you hardly gave me fair play, you and your Gaelic, with that dainty offspring of so grim a sire. Master Balangay, replied the Highlander, a man plays for his own hand. You should have learned the Gaelic long ago. The king stopped abruptly in his walk. Why do you call me by that name? Merely to show that in this ploy the royal prerogative is not brought into play. It is already settled that when I meet the king I am defeated. It remains to be seen what luck Planiam's Macdonald has in a contest with Planiam's steward. Oh, it's to be a contest then. Not unless you wish it so. I am content to exchange all the fair damn souls of Sterling for this one Highland Lassie. You'll exchange? cried the king. I make bold to say she is not yours to exchange. I intend to make her mine. Ah, we'll see about that, Jamie. We will Balangay, said Macdonald with confident precision. And so the contest began. The girl who saw few in her father's castle to be compared with those whom she supposed to be mere visitors at Danvigan was at first equally charming to each. A younger sister was her almost constant companion, which was very well at first, but laterally became irksome to both the suitors. Occasionally, however, one James saw the other saw her alone, and made the most of the opportunity presented, but the king soon found himself tremendously handicapped in the matter of language. The young lady possessed a keen sense of humor, and this with the ever-present knowledge that her English was not that of the schools, made her loft to adventure in that town before one accustomed to its polished use. This same sense of humor was equally embarrassing when the king madly plunged into the intricacies and ambushes of the Gaelic. His majesty was brave enough for anything, and did not hesitate, as a forlorn hope, to call his scant knowledge of the Gaelic to his aid. But even he could see that the result was invariably unhappy, for although the girl made every endeavor to retain her composure, there were times when some unfortunate phrase made her slight frame quiver with suppressed merriment. And no one knew better than the baffled king that laughter banishes sentiment. The serious Highlander, not less manly and handsome than his competitor, was gifted with an immeasurable advantage in his familiarity with every face and inflection of his native vernacular. In his despair the king struck up a close friendship with Donald, the second son of the MacLeod, the elder son being absent on some foray or expedition, and his majesty made a frantic effort to learn the only speech with which his new comrade was equipped. But this race against time gave MacDonald long and uninterrupted conferences with his enamorata, and the king saw too late the futility of his endeavor. It might have been wiser if he had taken his lessons from the girl herself instead of from her brother, but his majesty was more proficient in teaching than in learning from the fair sex. He had come to the conclusion that his uninteresting rambles with Donald were not likely to further his quest, and was sitting in his room cogitating upon some new method of attack when MacDonald burst into the apartment with radiant face. The king looked up at his visitor with no great good nature, and said sharply, Well, what is it? Your majesty, cried MacDonald jubilantly, I think I have found a method of escape, and that without in any way impunching our pledges. Oh, is that all, said the king, with the air of snubbing too enthusiastic a courtier, I thought the house was on fire, and I thought your majesty, return MacDonald, that this subject was ever uppermost in your mind. The king rested his closed fist on his hip, leaned his head a little to one side, and examined his rival critically. Why have you returned so unexpectedly to the phrase your majesty? Because, your majesty, answered MacDonald, laughing, the phrase Gidman of Balangaysh no longer matters, I do not understand you. It is to make myself understood that I have come so hurriedly. I beg then to inform your majesty that Miss MacLeod has consented to become my wife. I have spoken to her father, who has somewhat grudgingly and conditionally given his consent. It occurred to me that if I wedded the daughter of your jailer, I may have enough influence with the family to secure your majesty's release. I have no doubt, said the king, that this was your object from the beginning, and so you have exchanged a temporary jailer for one that will last you all your life. The Highlander knitted his brow and compressed his lips, as if to hold back some retort, which later he might regret. There was a moment's constrained silence, then the king flung off his iliumor as if it were a cloak. Forgive me, Jamie," he cried, springing to his feet. Forgive the wounded vanity of the vanquished. He extended his hand impetuously, which they are the grasped with eager cordiality. Jamie, my lad, you were right. The crown weighs heavy when it is thrown into the scale, but with this lassie I well believe it would have made not an ounce of difference. Let the best man win, say I, and you are the victor, so you have my warmest congratulation. Still, Jamie, you must admit that the Gaelic is the cursedest lingo ever a poor lowland breadman tried to get his tongue round. So now you see, Jamie, we are even again. You think the crown defeated you at Sterling, and I hold the language defeated me in sky. Thus we are both able to retain a good opinion of ourselves, which is the splendid privilege of every Scotsman to hold. Your bravery deserves success, for it requires some courage to face your future father-in-law. What did the old Carmagian say? He gave little indication of pleasure or the reverse. He offered me my liberty, now that I had pledged it in another direction, but he refused to release you, so I declined to accept his clemency. Then my proposed rescue must await the marriage ceremony? Not so. I have a more immediate and practical remedy. You have not forgotten the 26-ort barge, which the Macleod was to keep for the king, and which Malcolm Macleod built for him? It is not very likely when I issued a proclamation commending Malcolm as the greatest shipbuilder in the world. Well, Malcolm has arrived at Danvigen to receive into his own hands once more that same proclamation. I asked him in Macleod's presence if the fleet still lingered in Torredon Bay, and he answered that it did. Macleod pricked up his ears at this, and thinking he was to get some information. Now that I proposed myself as a member of his family, inquired if I knew why it remained so long. I said I had a suspicion of the cause. If Malcolm had not replied to the king's proclamation, it was natural that the fleet would wait until he did. Old Alexander and Malcolm seemed surprised that a response was expected, Malcolm being but a simple human. However, we wrote out a courteous reply to the king in Gaely, and Malcolm is to send it to the fleet as soon as he returns to the northern coast. I don't see how that is to help us, demurred his majesty. Here is my proposal. If you will now write out an order to the admiral commanding the fleet to pier before Danvigen Castle, I will write part of the way home with Malcolm, and suggest to him at parting that perhaps none of the officers of the fleet understand Gaely, or at least that none can read it, so I will fasten your letter to the other document and tell Malcolm it is a translation of his Gaely effusion. Neither Malcolm nor any of his friends at the port can read English, and as he is a simple-minded man, it is not likely that he will return and allow the lared perusal, so in that way we may get word to the fleet. Even if the letter is discovered, you will have kept your word, for you promised only not to communicate with Sterling. The king pronounced the device a feasible one, and set himself at once to the writing of the letter. McDonald succeeded in getting the unsuspicious Malcolm to take charge of the supposed English version of his note, and the king was left to wait the result with whatever patience was watched, saved him. The island had suddenly lost all interest for him, and he fervently wished himself safely in Sterling once more. He complimented the girl on the excellent choice she had made, and should return his compliment laughingly in Gaely, glancing timidly at McDonald as she asked him to be her interpreter. Two or three days later there was a commotion in the castle. The guards on the western headlands reported the approach on numerous ships, and by and by from the castle wall itself the fleet could be seen sailing slowly up Loch Valart. For the first time since they had known him, lines of deep anxiety marked the frowning brow of MacLeod, as he stood gazing at the approaching vessels. Here were visitors who, if they proved not to his liking, he could scarcely threaten with the dungeons of Dundagum. What do you make of this, MacDonald? said the chieftain, turning to his future son-in-law, as if already he looked to him for support and counsel. But MacDonald shook his head in spite of the fact that his wife, who was to be, stood very close to him. All negotiations have been carried on by my friend here, and so to him I must refer you. He is the leader of our expedition of two. During his brief acquaintance MacLeod had but thinly veil his dislike of the lowlander, who had always ventured to speak with him in a free and easy manner to which he was unaccustomed. Instead then of addressing his question to the other, he returned with occupation of watching the ships maneuvering in the loch before him. But his air of expectancy seemed to indicate that he thought the usual glibness exhibited by the man at his right could bring forth some sort of explanation. But the king stood as silent as himself, his eyes fixed on the fleet. One by one the ships came to anchor, and even an amateur in the art of naval warfire could see by the protruding guns that they were prepared for action. MacLeod could restrain his impatience no longer, so without glancing at his visitor he said, Perhaps you, sir, can tell me the purport of all this display. Assuredly answered the king with a trace of sternness in his tone that had hitherto been absent in his converse with his tailor. The fleet comes at the command of the king to take away your prisoners if they are unharmed or to batter down your castle if they have been molested. I suppose then I should be thankful they are unharmed. You have reason, said the king shortly. His majesty must set great value on your heads if he sends his whole fleet to Secorio. He does. How did he know you were here if you did not break your parole and communicate with Sterling? The king knows there is more going on. In sky than the making of strong rink I did not break my parole, neither did MacDonald. In spite of what you said to me you must have told the king before you left Sterling where you were going. I did not. Then word must have been brought to him from sky. It was not. In that case the only conclusion I can come to is that the king is unaware of your presence here, is well aware of it. You speak and riddles my friend, however, I had no real wish to detain you and you might have gone where you pleased any time this fortnight or more. So you say now. It is true enough. And if you wish to visit the fleet one of my boats will be ready to carry you the moment you give the order. I told you the first day that if you were a friend of the kings or an enmissary of his you could go on your way unchecked. Did I not, MacDonald? You said something of that sort, sir. You denied being a friend of the kings, persisted my cloud, and said you were but a small farmer near Sterling. I deny that I am a friend of the king. On the contrary, I don't mind confessing to you that I am the greatest enemy here has in the world and it is well he knows it. You amaze me. Then you do not wish to meet the fleet. On the contrary, I do, and I ask you to order a suitable boat for me. You shall have the best boat in my possession," said MacLoud, leaving them for a moment to give his command. In a short time a large boat with ten horsemen was waiting at the landing. They are ready for you," said MacLoud, with an effort at geniality, which gave a most sinister effect to his face. I am sorry to beat you good-bye, but I hope you bear away with you no ill will against Danvigan. Sir," said the king, ignoring his compliments, that boat will not do for me. It is the best I have," said MacLoud, looking at his truculent guest, with new anxiety. The boat you must bring to the landing is the twenty-six-ord barge, which Malcolm MacLoud built it so well. The MacLoud stepped back two paces. That boat is for the king," he said in a voice scarcely above a whisper. Yes, it is for the king. Therefore the king demands it. Give the order instantly that it be brought to the landing, well man with twenty-six rowers. All color left MacLoud's face. His next words were to MacDonald. Is this true?" he said. Yes, answered MacDonald. It is true. The girl, her wide eyes distended with fear, clutched the arm of her lover. Even she knew this was a case for the headsman. But MacLoud, with not a quiver in his voice, called down to his followers. Bring round the king's barge and see it is well manned. I myself will take the rudder. The stern face of the king relaxed as he saw this chief taint stand straighter than ever before since he had known him, ready to take on his head whatever might befall. The girl impetuously flung herself at the king's feet, and in her excitement forgetting the limitations of his learning, she put forth a plea for her father in Gaelic. The king smiled as he stooped and raised the suppliant. My dear, he said, I shall never hear that language without thinking of you, and of my own discomforture. If it were not that MacDonald stands there with that dark highland look on his face, it is I would kneel at your feet. Your father is to come with me to Sterling. For I have said he should, and I must keep my word with myself as well as I have kept it with him. Do not draw away your hand in spite of MacDonald's scowls, for I have this to promise you. If you and he will accompany us to Sterling, I pledge to you the king's words that I shall grant you whatever you ask. So you see you need have no fear for your father's safety. Saying this the king with that courtly manner which so well became him gave the hand of the girl into that of MacDonald. Thus it came about that the MacLeod took a voyage he had not intended, and came so unscathed from it that he long outlived the man who was the course of his journey. End of chapter 10, part 2, read by Los Rolander. Chapter 11, part 1 of A Prince of Good Fellows. This is a LibriVox recording, or LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Reading by Los Rolander. A Prince of Good Fellows by Robert Barr, chapter 11, part 1, The King Weds. Even a stranger in Sterling must have been impressed by the fact that something unusual was afoot, not to be explained by the mere preparation for ushering in the New Year. Inquiry soon solved the problem of the decorations and the rejoicings. James the Fifth, the most popular king Scotland had possessed since the days of Bruce, was about to be married, and most of his subjects thought it high time, for he had reached the mature age of 26, and monarchs are expected to take a mate somewhat earlier than other folk. As the king with a splendid retinue was to depart shortly after the New Year on a journey to France to claim his bride, the capital city flung its spunting to the breeze, and the inhabitants thereof pledged each other and the king bumpers of exhilarating beverages. Indeed, all Scotland was following the example set to it by Sterling, for the marriage was extremely well-liked throughout the land. The king's father had linked himself to an English princess, and the Scottish people thought little of her. The precipitate marriage of this queen only a few months after her husband's death still further lowered her in public estimation. Scotland professed slight regard for Margaret of England, and was glad when her son refused the offer of his uncle, Henry VIII, to provide him with a wife. Indeed, James was at that moment the most sought-after young man in the world, so far as matrimony was concerned. The pope, who now addressed him as defender of the faith, had a favorite candidate for his hand. Henry VIII was anxious that he should have all England to pick and choose from. The Emperor Charles V wished him to marry Princess Mary of Portugal. Francis I of France was eager to supply him with a well-doubled bride. Never before had any youth such an embarrassment of choice, but James himself decided that he would go a-wooing to France, and his subjects universally applauded his preference. James' elderly relative, John Duke of Albany, had married the heiress of de la Tour d'Ovain, and the young king resolved to follow his example. Apart from this, James in a manner was pledged from the time he was three years of age, for Albany, when Regent of Scotland, had promised France that the young ruler should seek his consort in that country. So there had now been chosen for him Mary, daughter of the Duke de Vendon, who was reported beautiful, and what was more to the purpose in a thrifty nation, was known to be wealthy. This courting by all Europe might have turned the head of a less sensible young man than James, but he well knew the reason that so many distinguished persons decide his alliance. Henry VIII was at loggerheads with France. The Emperor Charles and Francis I were engaged in one of their customary aimless wars, the advantage as usual, inclining rather to the Emperor's side. Scotland was at peace with itself and with all the world. The Scots were excellent fighters in whatever part of the world they encountered an enemy, and the strong fleet which James IV had built was augmented by his son and might prove a powerful factor in European politics. France and Scotland had long been traditional friends, and so this new mating aroused enthusiasm in both countries. Thus Sterling put on a gay attire and her citizens went about with smiles on their faces, all except one, and that one was James himself, who became more and more gloomy as the time for his departure approached. He had no desire to take upon himself the trammels of the matrimonial estate, and although his uncle, the strenuous Henry, was ultimately to set an example before the world of the ease with which the restrictions of marriage were to be shuffled off, yet at this time Henry himself was merely an amateur at the business, engaged in getting rid of Catherine of Aragon, a task which he had not yet succeeded in accomplishing. James had postponed and reposponed the fateful journey, but at last he saw it must be taken, or a friendly country, one of the proudest on earth, would be deliberately insulted in the face of the world. Not only this, but his own subjects were getting rested, and he knew as well as they that a disputed succession in the event of his early death might lead to civil war. So, making the best of the hard bargain which is imposed on princes, where what should be the most endearing ties of human affection are concerned, James set his face resolutely towards the south and attended by brilliant escort sailed for France. After a stormy voyage, for the month was January, the royal party landed in France and was met by the company of nobles, only less splendid than itself in that the king was one of the visitors. For Francis had remained at loss to welcome his brother sovereign at that great and sinister stronghold, where the court of France for the moment held its seat. Both time and weather seemed unpropitious for joyous occasion. News arrived at lock that the French army had suffered in its invasion of the Duke of Savoy's territory, and these tidings exercised a depressing influence on the welcoming delegation. As the United Escorts of France and Scotland set out on their journey to Loch, a flurry of damp snow filled the air raw from off the channel, and the road proved well-nigh impossible through depth of mud. The discontented countenance of the king, who wanted to be the life of any party of which he was a member, lowered the spirits of his Scottish followers to the level of those saddened by military defeat, and the horsemen made their way through the quagmires of northern France, more like a slow funeral procession than wedding guests. At the castle where they halted at the end of the first day's journey, the king speedily retired to the apartment to sign to him without a word of cheer even to the most intimate of his comrades. The travellers had accomplished only about twelve leagues from the sea coast on their first day's journey, and darkness had set in before the horsemen clattered through the narrow streets of a little town and came to the frowning gates of a great castle, whose huge tower in the glare of numerous torches loomed out white against the wintry sky. The chief room of the suite reserved for the king was the only cheerful object his majesty had seen that day. A roaring bonfire of bulky logs shed a flickering radiance on the tapestry that hang along the wall, almost giving animation to the night's picture thereon, sternly battling against foes in anger or merrily joisting with friends for pleasure at some forgotten tournament. The king probably actuated by the military instincts of his race urging him to get his bearings even though he was in the care of a friendly country strode to one of the windows and looked out. Dark as was the night and cloudy the sky, the landscape was nevertheless etched in tolerable distinctness by the snow that had fallen, and he saw far beneath him the depths of a profound valley and what appeared to be a town much lower than the one through which he had just ridden. The stronghold appeared to stand on a platform of rock which was at least impregnable from this side. James turned from the wintry scene outside to the more alluring prospect within the apartment. A stout oaken table in the center of the room was weighted with a sumptuous riposte and the king with a stalwart appetite of youth and health augmented by a tiresome journey in keen air forthwith fell too and did ample justice to the providing of his unknown host. The choicest vintages of France did something to dispel that depression which had settled down upon him and the outside glow of the great fire supplemented the inward ardor of good wine. The king drew up his cushion chair through the blaze and while his attendance speedily cleared the board a delicious drowsiness stole over him. He was partially aroused from this by the entrance of his poetical friend and confidant, Sir David Lindsay. Your Majesty, said the rimster, the constable of these towers craves permission to pay his respects to you, extending a welcome on behalf of his master, the King of France. Bring him in, David, cried James, for in truth he has already extended the most cordial of welcomes, and I desire to thank him for my reception. Shortly after Sir David Lindsay ushered into the room a young man of about the same age as the king, dressed in that superb and picturesque costume which denoted a high noble of France and which added the lustre of fine raiment to the distinguished court of Francis I. The king greeted his visitor with that affability which invariably drew even the most surly toward him without relaxing the dignity which is supposed to be the heritage of a monarch. I'm delighted to think, said the newcomer, that the king of Scotland has honoured my house by making it his first halting place in that realm which has ever been of the friend of his country. Sir, replied James, the obligation rests entirely upon me. After a stormy voyage and an inclement land journey the hospitality of your board is one of the most grateful encounters I have ever met with. I plead an ignorance of geography which is deplorable and cannot in the least guess where I am beyond the fact that the boundaries of France encompass me. I shall not pretend, said the young man, that my house is unworthy even of the distinguished guest which it now holds. Your majesty stands within historic walls for in an adjoining apartment was born William, the founder of the great grace of English kings. Scotsmen have defended this castle and Scotsmen have assaulted it so its very stones are linked with the fortunes of your country. Grave Henry V of England captured it and France took it from his successor. My own family, like the Scotch, have both stood its guard and have been the foremost of the breach to sack it. I am but now employed in repairing the ravages of recent turmoil. Here the king interrupted him as if to mend the reputation of ignorance he had bestowed upon himself. I take it then that I speak to one of the renowned name of Talbot and that this fortress is no other than the castle of Phalaeus and the king impetuously extended his hand to him. We both come of a stormy line Talbot. Indeed we are even more intimately associated than you have hinted, for one of your name had the temerity to invade Scotland itself in the interest of Edward Ballyol. Yes, by the rude and successfully too. Ah, Your Majesty, it does not become the pride of our house to refer to Richard Talbot. For three years later the Scots took him prisoner and he retired defeated from your country. Indeed, replied the King Ailey, if my memory serves me truly, we valued your valiant ancestors so highly that we made the King of England pay two thousand marks for him. We Scots are a frugal people. We weigh many of the blessings of life against good hard coin and by Saint Andrew of Scotland Talbot I hold myself today no better than the rest. For speaking as young man to young man, I think it unworthy of either King or peasant to take a woman to his bosom for ought save love of her. In that I cordially agree with Your Majesty, said Talbot, with the fervour that made the King glance at him with even more of sympathy than he had already exhibited. A wave of emotion seemed to overwhelm the sensitive James and submerge for the moment all discretion. He appeared to forget that he spoke to a stranger and one foreign to him. Yet James rarely mistook his man and in this case his intuition was not at fault. To lay bare the secrets of his heart to one unknown to him shortly before was an experiment of risk. But as he had said, he spoke as young man to young man and healthy youth is rarely cynical no matter to what country it belongs. The heart knows nothing of nationality and a true man is a true man wherever he hails from. James sprang to his feet and paced the long room in an excess of excitement, a cloud on his brow, hands clenching and unclenching as he walked. Equally with a lost in his realm he felt the need of a compassionate confidant. At last the words poured forth from him in an ecstasy of confession. Tall bought, he cried, I'm on a journey that shames my very manhood. I have lived my life as others of my age and whatever of contrition I may feel that rests between my maker and myself. I am as he formed me and if I was made imperfect I may be to blame that I straw so little to overcome my deficiency. But by God I say it here I never bought another nor sold myself. Now on the contrary I go to the loud market place. Now I approach a woman I have never seen and who has never seen me to pledge our lives together. The consideration for this union sat down on parchment and a stipulated sum paid over in lands and gold. The king stopped suddenly in his perambulation, raised his hands and said impressively I tell you friend and host I'm no better than my fellows and worse than many of them. But when the priest mutters the words that bind I say the man should have no thought in his mind but of the woman who stands beside him and she no thought in hers but of the man in whose hand she places her own. Then I go on with this quest cried young Talbot with an impetuosity equal to that of his guest. Why go on? How can I stop? The fate of kingdoms depends on my action. My honor is at stake. My pledged word is given. How can I withdraw? Your majesty need not withdraw. My master Francis is the very prince of lovers and every word you have uttered will awake an echo in his own heart. Although he is our senior by twenty years if I may venture to offer humbly such advice as occurs to me you should tell him that you have come to France not to be chosen for but to choose. France is the flower garden of the human race here bloom the fairest lilies of womanhood fit to grace the proudest throne in Christendom choice is the prerogative of kings indeed Talbot it is not said the king dolefully it should be so and can be so where a monarch boldly demands the right exercised unquestioned by the meanest mind whom shall you offend by stoutly claiming your right not France for you will wed one of her daughters not the king for his anxious to bestow upon you the lady you may prefer whom then merely the Duke of Vendon whose vaulting ambition it is to place a crown upon the head of his daughter though its weight may crush her the king looked fixily at the perturbed young man and a faint smile chased away the sternness of his countenance I haven't never known an instance he said slowly where the burden of a crown was urged as an objection even by the most romantic of women it would be so urged by Mary of Vendon were she allowed to give utterance to her wishes you know her then I am proud to claim her as a friend and to assert she's the very pearl of France ah you interest me you hint then that I come a bootless war that is turning the tables indeed and now you rouse an emulation which heretofore was absent in me you think I cannot win and wear this yule of the realm that you may wear it there is no doubt that you may win it is another matter Mary will place her listless hand in yours knowing thus she pleases the king and her father but it is rumoured her affections are fixed upon another sir you stir me up to competition now we enter the lists you bring the keen incentive of rivalry into play such your majesty was far from my intention I spoke as a friend of the lady she has no more choice in this bargain than you deplored the lack of a moment since the former gloom again overspread the king's face there is the devil of it he cried impatiently if I could meet her on even terms plain man and woman then if I loved her I would win her were all the nobles of France in the scales against me but I come to her chained a dingling captive and she approaches me alike in thrall it is a cursed fate and I chaff at the clanking links though they hold me nevertheless and all my life I can never be sure of her the chiming metal ever between us I come in pomp and display as public as the street I walk on and the union is as bracing as a slave market despite cathedral bells and archbishop's blessing ah well there is nothing gained by ranting do you write a lot with me I follow your majesty day behind but hope to overtake you before you are well past tours I am glad of it good night I see you stand my friend and before this comes to a climax we may have need to consult together good night good night next morning early the itinerants were on horseback again facing southward the day was wild and stormy and so was the next that followed it but after leaving tour they seemed to have entered an enchanted land for the clouds were dispersed and the warm sun came forth endowing the travellers with a genial climate like late springtime in Scotland as they approached Loche even the king was amazed by the striking sight of the castle a place formidable in its strength and in extent resembling a small city the gay and gallant Francis received his fellow monarch with a cordiality that left no doubt of its genuine character the French king had the geniality to meet James in the courtyard itself he embraced him at the very gates as soon as James had dismounted from his horse notwithstanding his twenty years of seniority Francis seemed as young as the Scottish king by St. Denis James he cried you are a visitor of good omen for you have brought fine weather with you and the breath of spring all this winter we have endured the climate of hardest itself without its warmth the two rulers stood together in the courtyard entirely alone for no man dare frequent their immediate neighbourhood but in a circle some distance removed from their centre the Scotch and the French fraternised together a preeminent assemblage numbering a thousand or more and from the balcony's beautiful ladies they sat down on the inspiring scene the gates were still open and the draw bridged down when a horseman came clattering over the courseway and heedless of the distinguished audience which he scattered to right and left amid curses on his clumsiness drew up his foaming horse in the very presence of royalty itself Francis cried out angrily at this interruption unmanly verlet how dare you come dashing through this throng like a drunken plowman the rider flung himself off the panting horse and knelt before his enraged master Osiris said my news may perhaps plead for me the army of the Emperor Charles in Provence is broken and in flight Spain has met a crushing defeat and no fool insults the soil of France except by lying dead upon it now my good fellow cried the king with dancing eyes you are forgiven if you had ridden down half of my nobility the joyous news spread like wildfire and cheer upon cheer rose to heaven like vocal flame to mark its advance brother cried the great king to his newly-right guest placing an arm lovingly over his shoulder his voice with suspicion of tremulousness about it you stalwart scots have always brought luck to our fair land of France this glad news is the more welcome to me that you are here when I receive it and so the two like affectionate kinsmen walked together into the castle which although James did not then know it was to be his home for many months there was a dinner of state that evening so gay and on a scale so grand that James had little time or opportunity for reflection on his mission here indeed as Talbot had truly said was the flower garden of the human race and the Scottish king so many a proud lady to whom probably he would have been delighted to bend the knee but his pride was not among the number the Duchess de Vendon explained to the king that her daughter was suffering from a slight illness and apart from this was anxious to greet her future husband in a conference more private than the present occasion afforded this was certainly reasonable enough and the important meeting to place the following afternoon Mary of Vendon might truly be called the pearl of France if whiteness of Visage gave claim to that title the king found himself confronted by a drooping young woman whose stern mother gave her a support which was certainly needed her face was of the pallor of wax and never once during that fateful interview did she raise the heavy lids from her eyes that she had once been beautiful was undoubted but now her face was almost gone in its excessive thinness the death like dew over delicate skin the fact that she seemed scared to breathe and that she never ventured to speak gave her suitor the impression that she more assembled one preparing for the tomb than a young girl anticipating her bridal she courtesied like one in a trance but the keen eyes of the king saw the tightening of her mother's firm hand on her wrist while she made the obeisance which etiquette demanded shortest was their formal greeting it was too long for this anemic creature who would have sung to the floor were it not for the clutch in which the determined mother held her even the king self-contained as he usually was found little to say beyond empty expressions of concern regarding her recent illness ending with a brief remark to the effect that he hoped she would soon recover from her indisposition but once the ordeal was over James was filled with a frenzy to be alone tortured as he was by an agony of mine which made any encounter with his fellows intolerable he strode through the seemingly interminable corridors of the great castle paying slight heed to his direction all doors opened before him and sentinels saluted as he passed at last not knowing where he was or how to get outside he said to one of the human statues who held a pipe tell me good fellow the quickest way to the outer air to spot where I can be entirely alone the guard saluting called a page whispered a word to him and the boy led the king to a door which gave access to a secluded garden enclosed on every side by high battlements yet nevertheless filled with great trees under which ran paths both straight and winding beside one wall lay the longest walk of this little park down this grave old way his hands clasped behind him the young king strode in more disturbance of mind than had ever before afflicted him oh god save me god save me he cried am I to be wedded to a ghost that woman is not even alive to say whether she's willing or no have I come to France to act the goal and rob the grave of its due saints in heaven helped me what am I to do I cannot insult France yet I cannot chain my living body to that dead woman why is not all but here he said he would overtake me a tour and yet is he not come the pearl of France said he the jewel of a toad's head say I my honor stake and to that unbreathing image of tallow is this my punishment do the sins of your youth thus overtake us and in such ghastly form bones so my ancestors I will not wed the grave the war and slaughter come of it and yet and yet my faith is plighted blindly unknowingly plighted why does not all but come he knew what my emotions would be on seeing that denizen of another world and so warned me these matted meditations were suddenly interrupted by a clear sweet voice from above echo say Scottish night please rescue for me my handkerchief which I have alas let fall wrap a stone in it and throw it hither I beg of you the startled king looked up and beheld peering over at him from the battlements above one of the most pecan't and pretty laughing faces he had ever seen innocent mischief sparkled in the luscious dark eyes which regarded him from a seemingly inaccessible perch a wealth of dark twosled hair made a midnight frame for a lovely countenance in the first flush of maidenly youth nothing could be more marked than the difference between the reality which thus came unexpectedly into view and his somber vision of another there also sifted down to him from a loft whisperings that were evidently protests from persons unseen but the minks who was the cause of them merrily bade her counsellors be quiet she must get her handkerchief she said and the scott was the only one to recover it fluttering white from one of the lower branches was a dainty bit of filmilace much too fragile a covering for the stone she had suggested the despair which enveloped the king was dispelled as the mist vanishes before the beaming sun he whipped out his thin wrapper and deftly disentangled the light burden from the detaining branch it fluttered to his hand and was raised gallantly to his lips at which the girl laughed most joyfully as if this action were intensely humorous other faces peep momentarily over the balustrade to be as quickly withdrawn when they saw the stranger looking up at them but the hussy herself, whoever she was seemed troubled by no such timorousness resting her arms upon the stone balustrade with her chin above them her inviting eyes gazing mockingly on the man below the king placed the handkerchief in the bosom of his doublet thrust home the rapier in its scabbard grasped the lower branch of the tree and swung himself up on it with the agility of an acrobat now the insolence of those eyes was chased away by a look of alarm no, no, she cried stay where you are you are too bold Scottish knight but she had to reckon with one who was a nimble wall climber either up or down the expertness in descent had often saved him from the consequences of too ambitious climbing the young man answered not a word but made his way speedily up along branches until he stood at a level with a parapet across the chasm which divided him from the wall he saw a broad platform railed round with a stone balustrade this elevated floor forming an ample promenade that was nevertheless secluded because of the higher castle walls on every side walls that were unpierced by any window a door at the farther end of the platform gave access to the interior of the palace a short distance back from the balustrades to the group of some half dozen very frightened women but the first course of all this commotion remained in the forefront of the assemblage angry and defiant how dare you sir she cried go back I command you then seeing him made no motion to obey her but was measuring with his keen eye the distance between the bending limb on which he held his precarious position and the parapet something more of a supplication came into her voice and she continued my good fellow place the handkerchief on the point of your sword and one of my women will reach for it be careful I beg of you that bow will break under your weight if you venture further the outreached arm and the sword will span the space madam said the king the sword's point is for my enemy on bended knee must I present the lady that which belongs to her end of chapter 11 part 1 read by Losh Rolander chapter 11 part 2 of a prince of good fellows this is a LibriVox recording or LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org reading by Losh Rolander a prince of good fellows by Robert Barr chapter 11 part 2 and with this before further expostulation was possible the young man made his perilius leap clutched the parapet with his left arm hung suspended for one breathless moment then flung his right leg a most shapely member over the balustrade and next instant was kneeling at her feet offering the gossamer token in the instant of crisis the young lady had given utterance to a little shriek which she instantly suppressed glancing nervously over her shoulder one of her women ran towards the door but the girl peremptorily ordered her to return the scott will not eat you she cried impatiently even if he is a savage madam your handkerchief explained the savage still offering it I shall not accept it she exclaimed her eyes blazing with resentment at his presumption the king sprang to his feet and swept off his plumed hat with the air of an Italian ten thousand thanks madam for your cherished gift saying which he thrust the slight web back into stublet again it is not a gift render it to me at once sir she demanded with feminine inconsistency she extended her hand but the king instead of returning the article in dispute grasped her fingers unawares and raised them to his lips she drew away her hand with an expression of the utmost contempt but nevertheless stood her ground in spite of the evident anxiety to be elsewhere or the bibi behind her sir you are unmanorly no one has ever ventured to treat me thus then I am delighted to be the first to introduce to you some aimable accustomed unmanorly? not so we savages learn our manners from the charming land of France and I have been told that in one or two instances this country has known not only the fingers but the lips to be kissed I implore you sir to desist and take your departure the way you came further I warn you that danger threatens I need no such warning my lady the danger has already encompassed me and my heart shall never free itself from its presence while remembrance of the lightning of those eyes abides with me the girl laughed with a trace of nervousness and the rich color mounted to her cheek sir you are learning your lesson will in France my lady the lowest hint in my country could not do otherwise under such tutelage you should turn your gifts to the service of your master go who for him poor Mary of Vendome and see if you can cure her who is dying of love for young Talbot of Valais for a moment the king stood as if struck by the lightning he had just referred to then staggering back a step rested his hand on the parapet and steadied himself good God he muttered in low tones is that true all cockatry disappeared from the girl as she saw the dramatic effect her words had produced she moved lightly forward then held back again anxiety on her brow sir what is wrong with you are you ill are you a friend of Talbot's yes I am a friend of his and did you not know this I thought everyone knew it does not the king of Scotland know what will he do when he learns think you or will it make a difference the king of Scotland is a blind fool a conceited coxcomb who thinks every woman that sees him must fall in love with him sir you amaze me are you not a subject of his you would not speak so in his hearing indeed and that I would without hesitation and he knows it is he so handsome as they say alas I am thought too young to engage in court festivities and in spite of my pleadings I was not allowed even to see his arrival the king had now recovered his composure and there was a return of his gallant bearing madam tell me your name and I shall intercede that so rigid a rule for one so fair may be relaxed ah now your impudence reasserts itself my name is not for you how can a humble Scottish knight hope to soften a rule promulgated by the king of France himself madam you forget that we are guests of France and in this gorgeous country nothing is denied us we meet with no refusals except from proud ladies like yourself I shall ask my captain he shall pass my request to the general who will speak to the king of Scotland and the king when he knows how beautiful you are will beg the favor from Francis himself the girl clasped her hands with exuberant delight I wonder if it is possible she said leaning towards the gay cavalier as if he were now her dearest friend for indeed it was quite evident that she thought much of him in spite of his irregular approach she was too young to feel the rules of etiquette otherwise than annoying bonds and like an imprisoned wild bird was willing to take any course that promised liberty your name then madam my name is Madeleine I need not ask if you are noble I'm at least as noble as Mary of Vendôme whom your king is to marry if he's cruel enough at this point one of the women who had stationed herself near the door came running towards the group and warned them that somebody was approaching the attendants who had hitherto remained passive probably with some womanly curiosity regarding the strange interview now became wild with excitement and joined their mistress in begging the stranger to depart not until I have whispered in your ear he said stoutly I cannot permit it I cannot permit it go at once I implore you then I escort you within the hall to meet whoever comes sir you are in port unit well it doesn't matter whisper he bent toward her and said Madeleine you must meet me here alone at this time tomorrow never, never she cried resolutely very well then here I stay until you consent you are cruel she said tears springing in her eyes then appealingly as a knock sounded against the door she added I promise go at once the young man precipitated himself over the parapet into the tree the fortune which attends lovers and drunkards favored him and the last bending branch lowered him as gently to the gravel of the walk as if he were a son of the forest he glanced upward and saw that the luminous face in its diaphanous environment of dark hair was again bent over the parapet the lips apart and still saying nothing but by the eloquent eyes questioning indeed he fancied he saw in them some slight solicitude for his safety he doffed his hat kissed the tips of his fingers and wafted the salutation toward her while a glow of satisfaction filled his breast as he actually saw a similar movement on the part of her own fair fingers which was quickly translated into gesture pointing to the garden door and then she placed a fingertip to her lips a silent injunction for silence he knew when to obey as well as when to disobey and vanished quickly through the door he retreated in no such despairing face of mind as he advanced but now paid some attention to the geography of the place that he might return unquestioning to his trist arriving at the more public corridors of the palace his first encounter was with the constable of Fales Talva's dress was travel stained and his youthful face wore almost the haggardness of age he looked like a man who had ridden hard and slept little finding now small comfort at the end of a toilsome journey the king with a cry of pleasure at the meeting smote his two hands down on the shoulders of the other who seemed unconsciously to shrink from the boisterous touch Talbot he cried you promised to overtake me too but you did not it is not given to every man to overtake your majesty said Talbot Horsley constable of Fales you were not honest with me that night in your castle I spoke to you freely from the bottom of my heart you answered me from your lips outward I do not understand your majesty replied the young man grimly yes you do you love Mary of Vendon why did you not tell me so? to what purpose should I have made such a confession even if it were the fact to the purpose of truth if for nothing else God's sake man is it thus you love in France old Scotland can be in that your tutor in your place there had been a quick divorce between my sword and scabbard were my rival twenty times a king I'd face him out and say by Cupid's bow return or fight what this in your castle to your guest exclaimed Talbot no perhaps not you are in the right constable you are in the right I had forgotten your situation for the moment I should have been polite to him within my own walls but I should have followed him across my marches and slit his gullet on the king's highway notwithstanding his distraction of mind the newcomer smiled somewhat wanily at the impetuous city of the other you must remember that while your foot presses French soil you are still the guest of all true Frenchmen nevertheless your majesties words have put new life into my veins did you see Mario Vendon yes and there is not three months life left to her unless she draws vitality from your presence man why stand you here idling climb walls force bolts kidnap the girl and marry her in spite of all the world alas there is not a priest in all France would dare to marry us knowing her pledge to your majesties priests of France I have priests in my own train who will let a word from me link you tighter than these stones are cemented together Gauls will Talbot these obstacles but lend interest to the chase is it possible that you having opportunity care not to marry Mario Vendon cried the amazed young man could not comprehend that where his preference fell another might be indifferent for she was as he had said the pearl of France to him and it seemed absurd to imagine that she might not be so to all the world united Europe with Francis and the emperor Charles for once combined could not force me to marry where I did not love I failed to understand this when I left Scotland but I have grown in wisdom since then who is she asked the constable with eager interest Hark ye Talbot said the king lowering his voice and placing an arm affectionately over the shoulder of the other you shall be my guide who is the lady Madeline of this court the lady Madeline there are several no there is but one the youngest the most beautiful the most witty the most charming who is she the constable wrinkled his brows in thought that must be Madeline de Montmorency she's the youngest of her name and is by many accounted beautiful I never heard that she was esteemed witty until your majesty said so rather reserved and proud is that the lady proud yes reserved yes that is perhaps not when she meets a man who knows enough to appreciate her however I shall speedily solve the riddle and must remember that you do not see the lady through a lover's eyes but I will not further keep you a change of cost you may prove to your advantage and I doubt not an untroubled night's sleep will further it your majesty overwhelms me with kindness who murmured the young lover warmly grasping the hand extended to him have I your permission to tell Mary of Vendôme you have my permission to tell her anything but you will bring her no news for I am now on my way to see her the king gaily marched on his head held high a man not to be denied and as he passed along all bowed at his coming for everyone in the court admired him there was something unexpectedly French in the dash of this young scotchman he strode across the court and up the steps which led into the palais Vendôme the duchess herself met him with a hard smile on her thin lips madam he said brusquely I would see your daughter alone the grim duchess hesitated Mary is so shy she said at last but the king interrupted her I have a cure for that shyness flees in my presence I will see your daughter alone madam send her to me there being no remedy when a king commands the lady made the best of a dubious proceeding James was pacing up and down the splendid drawing room when from the further door the drooping girl appeared still with downcast eyes none like in her meek obedience she came forward perhaps a third of the length of the room faltered and stood Mary said the king they told me you were beautiful but I come to announce to you that such is not my opinion you are ambitious it would seem so I tell you frankly you will never be queen of Scotland for the first time in his presence the girl uncovered her eyes and looked up at him yes said the king your eyes are fine I am constrained to concede that much and if I do not wed you myself it is but right I should nominate a candidate for your hand there is a friend of mine for whom I shall use my influence with Francis and your father that they may persuade you to marry him he is young Talbot constable of Falaise a demented stripplinger calls you the pearl of France ah now the color comes to your cheeks I would not have believed it all this demurnous then but the girl had sunk at his feet grasped his hands and pressed it to her lips to toot he cried hastily that is a reversal of the order of nature rise and when I send young Talbot to you see that you welcome him and now good day to you as he passed through the outer room the duchess lay in wait for him and began murmuring apologies for her daughter's diffidence we have arranged all about the wedding madam said the king reassuringly as he left the palace the next day at the hour when the king had met Madeleine for the first time he threaded his way eagerly through the maces of the old castle until he came to the door that led him out into the Elysian garden the weather still befriended him being of an almost summer mildness for several minutes he paced impatiently up and down the gravel walk but no laughing face greeted him from the battlements above at last wearing a good round Scottish oath he said I'll solve the mystery of the balcony facing the lower branch of the tree he was about to climb as he had done before when a tantalizing silvery laugh brought his arms down to his sights again it seemed to come from an arbor at the further end of the grounds but when he reached there the place proved empty he pretended to search among the bushes but nevertheless kept an eye on the arbor when his sharp ear caught a rustling of silk from behind the summer house he made a dash towards it then reversed his direction speeding like the wind and next instant this elusive specimen of Gaelic womanhood ran plump into his arms not seeing where she was going her head averted to watch the danger that threatened from another quarter before she could give utterance to more than one exclamatory oh! he had kissed her thrice full on the lips she struggled in his arms like a frightened bird nobly indignant with shame crimson cheeks smiting him with her powerless little snowflake of a hand a royal lover laughed ha! my Madeline this is the second stage of the game the hand was paradise on earth the lips are the seventh heaven itself release me you Scottish clown cried Madeline her black eyes snapping fire I will have you whipped from the court for your insolence my dear you could not be so cruel remember that poor cupid's back is naked and he would quiver under every stroke I'd never condescended to meet you did I dream of your acting so disintolerable the forwardness of you beggarly scots nay never beggarly for my dear except where a woman is concerned and then we beg for favors you little suspect who I am or you would not venture to misuse me thus and be so free with your my dears indeed lass in that you are mistaken I not only found you in the garden but I found your name as well you are Madeline de Montmorency she ceased to struggle and actually laughed a little how clever you are to have discovered so much in such a short time now let me go and I will thank you name more I promise that if you ask the Duke of Montmorency for his permission and he grants it I will see you as often as you please now Madeline I hold you to that and I will seek an introduction to the Duke at once she stepped back from imparting and sank into a deep courtesy that seemed to be characterized more by ridicule than politeness oh thank you sir she said I should really love to be an eavesdropper at your conference before he could reply the door open by which he had entered the park in the fiend's name the king Marta James in no manner pleased by the unwelcome interruption all color left the girl's face and she hastily endeavored to arrange in brief measure the disordered masses over her hair somewhat tangled in the struggle as Francis advanced up the walk the genial smile froze on his lips and an expression of deep displeasure overshadowed his countenance a look of stern resentment coming into his eyes that would have made any man in Israel quail before him the girl was the first to break the embarrassing silence saying breathlessly your majesty must not blame this Scottish night it is all my fault for I lured him hither peace child exclaimed Francis in a voice of cold anger you know not what you say what do you hear alone with the king of Scotland the king of Scotland echoed Madeline in surprise her eyes opening wide with renewed interest as she gazed upon him then she laughed they told me the king of Scotland was a handsome man James smiled at this imputation of his appearance and even the rigor of the lord of France relaxed a trifle and a gleam of affection for the wayward girl that was not to be concealed rose in his eyes Sir, said James slowly we are neither of us to blame it is the accident that brought us together must bear the brunt of consequence I cannot marry Mary of Bendome and indeed I was about to beg your majesty to issue your command that she may wed your constable of Fales if there is to be a union between France and Scotland other than now exists this lady and this lady alone must say yes or no to it premising her free consent I ask her hand in marriage she is but a child objected Francis breathing a sigh which had however something of relief in it I am fully seventeen expostulated Madeline with a promptness that made both men laugh Sir, youth is a fault which allows travels continually with time it's antidote said James, if I have your good wishes in this project on which I confess my heart is set I shall at once approach the Duke of Montparency and solicit his consent the face of Francis had cleared as if array of sunshine had fallen upon it the Duke of Montparency he cried in astonishment what has he to do with the marriage of my daughter James murmured something that may have been a prayer but sounded otherwise as he turned to the girl whose delight at thus mystifying the great of earth was only too evident I told him he little suspected who I was said Madeline with what might have been termed a jiggle in one less highly placed but these confident Scots think they know everything indeed it is all your own fault father in keeping me practically a prisoner when the whole castle is throbbing with joy and festivity then the repressible princess buried her flushed face in her hands and laughed and laughed as if this were the most irresistible comedy in the world instead of a grave affair of state until at last the two monarchs were forced to laugh in sympathy I could not wish her a braver husband said Francis at last I see she has bewitched you as is her habit with all of us and thus it came about that James the fifth of Scotland married the fair Madeline of France The end End of chapter 11 part 2 an end of the book a prince of good fellows by Robert Barr read by Los Rolander thank you for listening