A disposition to
this effect she had for some time suspected. His conduct, too, was less
kindly of late, and he took upon himself an authority more direct and
unconditional. Indeed, it seemed but too evident that Sir Oskatell was
looked upon as the ultimate possessor. The maiden pined sorely at her
lot, and lack of perpetuity in the inheritance. But woman's wits have
compassed a sea of impossibilities, and will ever continue irresistible
until their beautiful forms shall no longer irradiate these dull
mortalities with their presence.
One day an aged minstrel craved admission. Sir Thomas had just retired
from the banquet. Isabella and the lady of Lathom were at their usual
employment in their private chamber, plying the needle in "Antres vast,"
and wildernesses of embroidery, along with the maids. The request was
granted; soon after which an old man, bending apparently under an
accumulation of years and infirmities, entered the apartment. There was
a keen scrutinising restlessness of the eye, stealing through the
silvery locks about his brow, that but ill accorded with his apparent
decrepitude.
After a very profound obeisance, which the lady-mother scarcely
recognised, he addressed himself to his vocation.
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