We heard loud acclamations, which made us think something unusual was
going on, and it was the publication of this precious edict. I
wondered who they thought was going to attend to it when M. Darpent
brought in a copy. And my mother began to cry and talk about Lord
Strafford. I had to think of Eustace and bite my tongue to keep my
patience at our noble 'thorough' Wentworth being likened to that base
cringing Italian.
Clement Darpent said, however, that every one had passed it by
acclamation, except Bernai, who was a mere cook, and gave fine
dinners to such a set of low, loose creatures that he was called 'le
cabaretier de la cour.' Moreover, they proceeded to give orders for
levying 4000 horse and 10,000 foot. This really did mean civil war.
'I knew it,' said my mother, 'it is the next step after denouncing
the King's minister. We shall see you next armed cap-a-pie, like our
young advocates at home, all for the King's behalf, according to
them.'
Of course she was thinking of Harry Merrycourt, but she was surprised
by the answer.
'No, Madam, nothing shall induce me to bear arms against the King.
So much have I learned from the two living persons who I esteem the
most.'
'And they are?' asked my lady.
'My mother and monsieur votre fils,' he replied.
And I could not help crying out---
'Oh, sir, you are right. I know that Harry Merrycourt feels NOW that
nothing can justify rebellion, and that he little knew whither he
should be led.
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