Next came
the trumpeters, mounted on richly caparisoned horses, and having their
clarions decorated with silken bandrols, fringed with gold. Stationing
themselves at the principal entrance of the lists, they were speedily
joined by the heralds, pursuivants, and other officers of the tilt-yard.
Presently afterwards, the Duke of Suffolk, who was appointed judge of
the lists, appeared, and rode round the arena to see that all was in
order. Apparently well satisfied with the survey, he dismounted, and
proceeded to the gallery.
Meanwhile, the crowd within the court was increased by a great influx
of the different members of the household, amongst whom were
Shoreditch, Paddington, and Hector Cutbeard.
"Marry, this promises to be a splendid sight!" said the clerk of the
kitchen; "the king will, no doubt, do his devoir gallantly for the sake of
the bright eyes that will look upon him."
"You mean the queen's, of course? "said Shoreditch.
"I mean hers who may be queen," replied Cutbeard; "Mistress Jane
Seymour."
"May be queen!" exclaimed Shoreditch. "You surely do not think the
king will divorce his present consort?"
"Stranger things have happened," replied Cutbeard significantly.
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