se
of arms. In all pageants and festivals, the eyes of the populace
were attracted by the singular bearing and rich array of the
English earl and his train, who prided themselves in always
appearing in the garb and manner of their country--and were indeed
something very magnificent delectable, and strange to behold.'

"The worthy chronicler is no less elaborate in his description of
the masters of Santiago, Calatrava, and Alcantara, and their
valiant knights, armed at all points, and decorated with the badges
of their orders. These, he affirms, were the flower of Christian
chivalry; being constantly in service they became more steadfast
and accomplished in discipline than the irregular and temporary
levies of feudal nobles. Calm, solemn, and stately, they sat like
towers upon their powerful chargers. On parades they manifested
none of the show and ostentation of the other troops: neither, in
battle, did they endeavor to signalize themselves by any fiery
vivacity, or desperate and vainglorious exploit,--everything, with
them, was measured and sedate; yet it was observed that none were
more warlike in their appearance in the camp, or more terrible for
their achievements in the field.

"The gorgeous magnificence of the Spanish nobles found but little
favor in the eyes of the sovereigns. They saw that it caused a
competition in expense ruinous to cavaliers of moderate fortune;
and they feared that a softness and effeminacy might thus be
introduced, incompatible with the stern nature of the war. They
signified their disapprobation to several of the principal
noblemen, and recommended a more sober and soldier-like display
while in actual service.

"'These are rare troops for a tournay, my lord [said Ferdinand to
the Duke of Infantado, as he beheld his retainers glittering in
gold and embroidery]; but gold, though gorgeous, is soft and
yielding: iron is the metal for the field.'

"'Sire [replied the duke], if my men parade in gold, your majesty
will find they fight with steel.' The king smiled, but shook his
head, and the duke treasured up his speech in his heart."

Our author excels in such descriptions as that of the progress of
Isabella to the camp of Ferdinand after the capture of Loxa, and of the
picturesque pageantry which imparted something of gaye