Page 176 (2/2)

which the unworthy chronicler is altogether incompetent to speak The

first words of the ceremony dropped from the prelate's urbane lips, and

Sir Norman's heart danced a tarantella within him "Wilt thou?" inquired

the bishop, blandly, and slipped a plain gold ring on one pretty finger

of Leoline's hand and all heard the old, old forether, let no man put asunder!" And the whole lance at the ring on her finger Long ago,

slaves wore rings as the sign of their bondage--is it for the same

reason married women wear them now? While she yet looked half-doubtfully

at it, she was surrounded, congratulated, and stunned with a

sadden clah it all, she heard the

well-re:

"My lords and ladies, tih! Off with you all to the courtyard, and ear for robestravel, and

joins us there"

With a low obeisance to the king, the lovely bride hastened away after

one of the favorite's attendants, to do as he directed, and don a

riding-suit In ten minutes after, when the royal cavalcade started, she

turned from the pest-stricken city, too and fairest, where all was fair,

by Sir Norman's side rode Leoline