For myself, I shall lead Jane
Seymour to the bransle."
"And if your majesty should need a partner," said Jane, walking up to
Anne and speaking in a low tone, "you will doubtless find Sir Henry
Norris disengaged."
The queen looked as if stricken by a thunderbolt. She heard the
triumphant laugh of her rival; she saw her led forth, all smiles and
beauty and triumph, by the king to the dance, and she covered her face
in agony. While she was in this state, a deep voice breathed in her
ears, "The vengeance of Catherine of Arragon begins to work!"
Looking up, she beheld the tall figure of the monk retreating from the
chamber.
III. What passed between Norris and the Tall Monk.
Tottering to the seat which Henry and Jane had just quitted, Anne sank
into it. After a little time, having in some degree recovered her
composure, she was about to return to the great hall, when Norris
appeared.
"I did not deceive you, madam," he said, "when I told you the king was
insensible to your charms; he only lives for Jane Seymour."
"Would I could dismiss her!" cried Anne furiously.
"If you were to do so, she would soon be replaced by another," rejoined
Norris.
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