"
"Since you confess so much, fair maiden," rejoined Wolsey, "I will be
equally frank, and tell you it was from the king's own lips I heard of your
beauty."
"Your grace! " she exclaimed.
"Well, well," said Wolsey, smiling, " if the king is bewitched, I cannot
marvel at it. And now, good day, fair maiden; you will hear more of me."
"Your grace will not refuse me your blessing? "said Mabel.
"Assuredly not, my child," replied Wolsey, stretching his hands over her.
"All good angels and saints bless you, and hold you in their keeping.
Mark my words: a great destiny awaits you; but in all changes, rest
assured you will find a friend in Cardinal Wolsey."
"Your grace overwhelms me with kindness," cried Mabel; nor can I
conceive how I have found an interest in your eyes--unless Sister
Anastasia or Father Anslem, of Chertsey Abbey, may have mentioned
me to you."
"You have found a more potent advocate with me than either Sister
Anastasia or Father Anselm," replied Wolsey; "and now, farewell."
And turning the head of his mule, he rode slowly away.
On the same day there was a great banquet in the castle, and, as usual,
Wolsey took his station on the right of the sovereign, while the papal
legate occupied a place on the left.
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