Читать книгу Cardinal Pole; Or, The Days of Philip and Mary. An Historical Romance онлайн

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“It is my wish to observe all good old English customs,” pursued the Prince. “If I unintentionally neglect any of them, I hope to be made aware of the omission. I would fain drink a health to all present.”

“A cup of wine for his Highness!” cried the Earl of Arundel.

“Nay, my good lord, let me have a flagon of English ale,” said the Prince. “I should prefer your national beverage.”

“As your Highness pleases,” rejoined Arundel, bowing. “A flagon of ale on the instant.”

The Prince’s choice caused considerable merriment, and warmed many a heart towards him.

“A cup of ale!” exclaimed Simnel. “This is carrying complaisance to the highest point.”

“His Highness is resolved to become an Englishman, that I can plainly perceive,” observed Rodomont, “and takes what he conceives to be the shortest way to his object. Heaven bless him! he is a most gracious Prince.”

At this juncture, a silver flagon, filled with ale, was brought on a salver, and presented by the Earl of Arundel to the Prince, who, taking the cup, bowed graciously around.