er and Buckingham came forward and, when his Majesty was
seated upon his throne, enquired as to how he did, and kissed his hand,
as though they loved him; when, at the same time, I verily believe, one
of them at least had been happy had the King been dead.

Every one remarked upon the great change in the noble Edward, and
hastened forward to enquire as to his health; when, if they did use
their eyes, they could see their answer writ in bold letters upon that
pale, yet handsome face.

His Majesty did not seem to like these enquiries; for he frowned on
some which expressed their hope that he was not ill. When my friend
and I paid our homage to him, however, he smiled and spoke most kindly
unto us. This action of the King's did not seem to please some of
those which had met with a reception less warm; for I observed on the
faces of some of these lords and others, sneers and smiles; then would
they turn to each other and converse, and look in our direction, and
shrug their shoulders, as much as to say:--"It matters not; those upon
whom he smiles to-day may be in the Tower to-morrow."

But to this we paid little attention; for it was but natural for them
to feel jealous, after their cold reception.

When the presentation of the guests had been completed, King
Edward--though it must have cost him an effort,--spoke in a clear
voice, and told them the object of this entertainment, which was given,
said his Majesty, in honor of his Royal brother, the Duke of
Gloucester, and the brave nobles and knights who had assisted him in
gaining a victory over our enemies, and so adding another jewel to the
crown of England, by the acquisition of Berwick. Then came a surprise.
The King turned to Gloucester and said: "My brother informs me that
Scotland was assisted, to a great extent, in her unlawful and hostile
acts against us, by our ancient foe--France. Several French noblemen
of importance were taken prisoners on the field of Berwick; which is
strong evidence against that disturber of the peace of nations, across
the Channel.

"In a few short months we hope to see ye gathered in this same room,
for the purpose of celebrating our victory over France."

Then, as the King ended this speech, which appeared greatly to exhaust
him, we all did break into a roar of applause, which did not stop until
his Majesty raised his hand, which did command our silence. Then
another motion from the King, and the musicians started up.

The Duke