This prohibition, settling
on a womanish fancy, might naturally have been expected to operate in a
manner the reverse of his intention. Yet we do not find from history
that Isabella ever cherished for him any other sentiments than those
arising from a sisterly regard.
Growing up to man's estate, he sought the court of King Edward, where,
though of a peaceable temper, his soul was stirred to participate in
the gallant feats incident to that scene of martial enterprise.
Isabella was now in the full summer, or, it might be, ripening into the
rich autumn of her beauty. Her father would by no means have permitted
her union save with one of the highest rank, to which her gentle blood
and princely inheritance entitled her. And though not a few hitherto, of
noble birth and endowments, had sought the honour of her alliance, yet
her heart was untouched, and in the end her suitors forbore their
homage.
All the country was now mightily roused with the news of the French
champion who, together with sundry of his companions in arms, had
challenged the English nation to match them with the like number at a
solemn joust and tourney, and of the great gallantry and personal
accomplishments of Sir John, then Captain Stanley, who had first taken
up the gauntlet in his country's behalf.
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