Amid
the throng of beautiful dames surrounding Anne Boleyn he could not be
certain that he detected the Fair Geraldine; but he readily distinguished
the Duke of Richmond among the nobles, and the sight awakened a
pang of bitter jealousy in his breast.
The day wore away slowly, for he could not fix his attention upon his
books, neither was he allowed to go forth upon the battlements of the
tower. In the evening, however, the officer informed him he might take
exercise within the dry moat if he was so inclined, and he gladly availed
himself of the permission.
After pacing to and fro along the walk for a short time, he entered the
arbour, and was about to throw himself upon the bench, when he
observed a slip of paper lying upon it. He took it up, and found a few
lines traced upon it in hurried characters. They ran thus: -
"The Fair Geraldine arrived this morning in the castle. If the Earl of
Surrey desires to meet her, he will find her within this arbour at
midnight."
This billet was read and re-read by the young earl with feelings of
indescribable transport; but a little reflection damped his ardour, and
made him fear it might be a device to ensnare him.
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